ABOUT US
Surgeon
Dr Sergei Tsakanov completed his medical degree at the prestigious University of Sydney in 2005 and spent the following decade dedicated to advancing his surgical expertise. He trained and practised in both rural and metropolitan settings across some of Australia’s leading centres of excellence, including Prince of Wales, Wollongong, St George, St Vincent’s, Sutherland, Bankstown, and Darwin Hospitals.
In 2019, after successfully completing rigorous examinations, Dr Tsakanov was admitted as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).
He currently serves as a Visiting Medical Officer at Auburn and Canterbury Hospitals, and holds admitting rights at St George Private, Strathfield Private, Westmead Private, East Sydney Private, and Alexandria Day Surgery.
Dr Tsakanov is proficient in a wide range of general surgical procedures, with particular expertise in minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery for gallbladder disease, hernias, appendicitis, skin lesions, soft tissue lumps, and perianal conditions. He has a special interest in hernia surgery and abdominal wall reconstruction, having researched and published in this field.
He established the first publicly funded, dedicated Hernia Clinic at Canterbury Hospital, pioneering the Canterbury Short Stay Hernia Service, an innovative approach leveraging day surgery to improve patient outcomes and access.
In addition to his surgical practice, Dr Tsakanov offers a full suite of endoscopic services, including colonoscopy and gastroscopy.
Educator
In addition to his clinical work as a General Surgeon, Dr Sergei Tsakanov is deeply committed to the education and mentoring of medical students and junior doctors. He holds a Master’s degree in Surgical Education from the University of Melbourne, reflecting his dedication to advancing surgical teaching and training.
During his time with the Western Sydney Local Health District, Dr Tsakanov developed and implemented the “Online Ward Rounds” program—an innovative virtual teaching initiative for medical students. This program has received international recognition, with multiple presentations and peer-reviewed publications highlighting its impact.
Dr Tsakanov is the Hospital Supervisor of Surgical Training at Canterbury Hospital, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Notre Dame Australia, and serves as an examiner for the Surgical Sciences (Part 1) Examination. He also shares insights into surgical practice and training through his podcast, “Virtual Ward Rounds”, which explores the practical aspects of perioperative patient care.
Patient advocate
Dr Sergei Tsakanov moved from Russia to Sydney at the age of 17. Navigating the challenges of studying in a new language and culture, he went on to realise his dream of becoming a surgeon, graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Sydney.
Having come from a non-English speaking background, Dr Tsakanov understands the difficulties patients may face when language becomes a barrier to care. He is committed to clear, simple communication and takes the time to explain every step of your treatment in a way that is easy to understand. Patients are always encouraged to ask questions to ensure full understanding and active participation in their care.
Dr Tsakanov is a strong advocate of shared decision-making, where surgeon and patient work together to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. He takes pride in delivering honest, accurate, and accessible explanations and encourages patients to seek a second opinion if they wish. He is also happy to provide second opinions, ensuring patients are empowered to make informed choices for the best possible outcomes.
