Sajal Rai is a highly experienced general and colorectal surgeon specialising in disorders of the intestines, in particular those of the colon and rectum. Mr Rai's particular area of interest is treating these disorders by keyhole or laparoscopic surgery. He also treats general gastroenterological disorders such as hernias and gall stones by laparoscopic surgery.

Mr Rai undertook specialist colorectal surgery training at the University Hospital of Leicester and was awarded the Doctor of Medicine (MD) research degree by the university in 2007. Following completion of specialist training he undertook a period of fellowship in laparoscopic colorectal surgery at Bristol under the guidance of Mr Tony Dixon who is a widely acclaimed trainer in the UK. Mr Rai was appointed Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon with special interest in laparoscopic colorectal surgery at Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport in January 2010 with the main aim of developing the laparoscopic colorectal service at the trust.

Mr Rai is also very involved in mentoring and coaching his surgical colleagues at the Trust in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. He currently performs the majority of bowel operations for cancer and for benign disease (like diverticular disease or inflammatory bowel disease) through laparoscopic or keyhole surgery.

Mr Rai has been appointed as the project and clinical lead in developing and implementing the Enhanced Recovery Programme for patients undergoing major colorectal surgery at the Stockport NHS Foundation Trust. The program aims to improve patient experience and outcome, reduce complications and facilitate early discharge by planned nutrition and mobilisation. Under his leadership, the programme was launched in March 2011 and is currently running well with good feedback from patients.