Dr. Ajay Hirakannawar is a full-time Consultant in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai. He completed his MCh in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (CVTS) from K.E.M. Hospital, Mumbai, in 2005. Following this, he worked as an Associate Consultant at Hinduja Hospital for two years.

He later pursued advanced training in adult cardiovascular and thoracic surgery in Australia, where he spent seven years gaining extensive experience across several reputed institutions. His areas of specialization include coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB), total arterial revascularization (TAR), aortic aneurysm and dissection repairs, arrhythmia surgery, and valve replacement procedures. He also has a strong interest in mitral and tricuspid valve repair.

Dr. Hirakannawar is experienced in the use of mechanical circulatory support systems such as ECMO. In addition, he performs a wide range of lung surgeries, with particular expertise in minimally invasive thoracoscopic (keyhole) procedures, including lobectomy, pneumonectomy, pleurodesis, and decortication.

He is also a strong advocate of preventive cardiology, emphasizing early intervention and heart health awareness.