Dr. Pema Lhazeen

Dr. Pema Lhazeen is a general surgeon at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu — Bhutan's only national referral hospital and the main centre for surgical care in the country. With 12 years of surgical experience, he provides essential general and abdominal surgical services.

Dr. Pema trained in Bhutan before completing his MS in General Surgery at PGIMER (Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research) in Chandigarh, India — a major training partner for Bhutanese medical graduates. He subsequently undertook laparoscopic surgery training.

His practice covers the common general surgical conditions in Bhutan, including gallbladder disease, appendicitis, hernias, thyroid surgery, and trauma surgery. Road traffic injuries and agricultural accidents are the main trauma sources. For complex oncological or subspecialty surgical cases beyond JDWNRH's current capacity, he coordinates referrals to India.

Dr. Pema earned his MBBS from Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan and completed his MS in General Surgery at PGIMER Chandigarh, India. He holds a Certificate in Laparoscopic Surgery from training in India. He participates in continuing surgical education through Bhutan Medical and Health Council programs.

Dr. Pema performs laparoscopic cholecystectomy, appendicectomy, inguinal and incisional hernia repair, thyroidectomy for goitre and thyroid nodules, and colorectal procedures. Trauma surgery including exploratory laparotomy and management of abdominal injuries is a significant part of his practice. He also manages breast lumps, soft tissue tumours, and performs wound care and abscess drainage.

Dr. Pema participates in Bhutan Medical and Health Council continuing education and contributes to surgical training at JDWNRH. He is focused primarily on clinical surgical practice and surgical capacity development in Bhutan.

Dr. Pema manages international patients and tourists at JDWNRH, including visitors who require emergency surgical care while in Bhutan. He consults in Dzongkha, English, and Hindi. Video consultations are available for pre-operative reviews.

Dr. Pema has been recognized by JDWNRH for surgical contributions. He is a member of the Bhutan Medical and Health Council and contributes to surgical training for junior medical officers in Bhutan.