2nd Surgical Department

The 2nd Surgical Clinic of HYGEIA Hospital provides comprehensive General Surgery services, treating all kinds of surgical conditions, both ordinary and acute, such as hernias and abdominal wall diseases as well as surgical emergencies. It also provides skin and soft tissue surgical services. At the same time, the main focus of the Clinic is on Coloproctology, Complex Surgical Oncology, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Functional Bowel Disorders (FBDs), Pelvic Floor Disorders and Robotic – Minimally Invasive Surgery, following the standards of leading international university centres.

The 2nd Surgical Clinic  manages the entire range of benign and malignant tumours, with specialist expertise in locally advanced and recurrent ones, which often require pelvic exenterations, multi-organ surgical excisions and revision surgeries of high technical difficulty.  Advanced onco-functional techniques are applied to achieve oncological radicality while preserving function and optimising quality of life.

The 2^nd Surgical Clinic also serves as a specialised centre for the surgical management  of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (Crohn & ulcerative colitis), offering comprehensive solutions that include ileal pouch and redo pouch surgeries as well as targeted treatment of perianal diseases.

In the field of Functional Bowel Disorders and Pelvic Floor Disorders, the 2^nd Surgical Clinic has a high degree of specialisation in the management of complex conditions such as Slow Transit Constipation, Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS), faecal incontinence, pelvic floor dyssynergia, rectal prolapse and chronic pelvic pain, utilizing specialized diagnostic tests and advanced therapeutic interventions, such as the Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNS).

In the field of Proctology, offers modern and comprehensive treatment of haemorrhoids, perianal fistulas (simple & complex), anal fissures, perianal abscesses, AIN and warts, with an emphasis on techniques that ensure rapid recovery and maintenance of functionality.

The use of robotic and laparoscopic techniques is central to the philosophy of the 2nd Surgical Clinic. The application of a state-of-the-art robotic system allows for exceptional precision in demanding procedures such as total mesorectal excision (TME), complex oncological resections and revision surgeries, significantly reducing hospitalization time and postoperative complications.

The operation of the clinic is based on a fully structured multidisciplinary (MDT) approach, in close collaboration with the Departments of Oncology, Radiotherapy, Radiology, Gastroenterology, Pathological Anatomy, Urology and Gynaecology. Each case is assessed on an individual basis, applying the latest international guidelines optimal therapeutic decision-making.

Excellence in Research & Academic Work

The scientific identity of the 2nd Surgical Clinic is significantly enhanced by the rich academic and research background of its Director, Christos Kontovounisios, who holds academic roles at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine US, the Imperial College London UK, and the University of Athens, as well as clinical positions at The Royal Marsden Hospital and Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London UK.

His extensive research work includes:

• Numerous publications in leading international journals
• Research in colorectal cancer, IBD, functional diseases, endometriosis and rare tutors
• Developing new surgical techniques and protocols
• Participation in international Clinic al networks
• Extensive educational activity at undergraduate and postgraduate level

This strong academic background allows the Clinic to operate in an environment of evidence – based medicine, continuous development and innovation, offering patients access to the most modern scientific practices.

Patient Experience & Holistic Care

The 2nd Surgical Clinic offers a uniquely comprehensive patient experience that focuses on safety, functional rehabilitation, and ongoing support throughout the treatment process. Access to all required tests, medical specialists and treatments within the same hospital ensures speed, consistency, and coordinated care.

Patients benefit from:

• Advanced robotic & laparoscopic techniques
• ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocols for rapid recovery
• Incorporation of nerve-sparing techniques for excellent functional results
• Personalized communication and organized monitoring
• Access to international guidelines and best practices

The result is a care experience that combines high expertise, excellent clinical outcomes, and meaningful human support.

Participation in National & International Organizations – Contribution to Health Policy

Dr. Kontovounisios has actively participated in leading national and international scientific organizations, contributing to the development of modern surgical practice and surgical health policy. He has collaborated or been a member of organizations such as:

• ACS – Fellow of American College of Surgeons
• RCS – Royal College of Surgeons of England
• ESCP – European Society of Coloproctology
• SSO – Society of Surgical Oncology
• ACPGBI – Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain & Ireland
• Various National Greek surgical societies

His participation in committees, guideline panels and educational programs strengthens the connection of the 2nd Surgical Clinic with international medical developments, offering patients access to innovative techniques, internationally recognized protocols and high-quality care.