Catalin Copaescu

Prof. Dr. Cătălin Copăescu is the first surgeon in Romania recognized for excellence in metabolic and bariatric surgery. He holds certifications from both the European (IFSO–EC) and American (SRC) boards. He established the Center of Excellence for bariatric surgery in Southeast Europe. This facility is the only one of its kind in the region.

Clinical Focus and Expertise

Prof. Dr. Copăescu performs over 1,000 minimally invasive procedures annually. He uses advanced laparoscopic and robotic–assisted techniques. The specialist treats metabolic disorders, colorectal conditions, and complex hernias. He also treats gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and performs endoscopic revision surgery.

Prof. Dr. Copăescu introduced Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) and Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) to Romania. SILS is a technique that uses one small incision in the navel to reduce scarring. NOTES allows surgeons to perform abdominal operations through natural openings without external incisions.

Leadership and Academic Roles

• Director of the Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence at Ponderas Academic Hospital
• Head of the General Surgery Department at Ponderas Academic Hospital
• Executive Director of the Bucharest Surgical Training Institute
• Associated Professor at the "Carol Davilla" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest
• Associated Professor at the "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi

Surgical Education and Training

The doctor has spent 25 years training others in minimally invasive surgery. He leads 12 to 15 hands–on courses every year since 2011. Additionally, Prof. Dr. Copăescu has directed international workshops and clinical immersions for surgical teams since 2010. His educational programs carry endorsements from RAES, EAES, and ASM.

Notable Achievements

• 2011 – Received European Excellence Certification (IFSO–EC)
• 2014 – Received American Excellence Certification (SRC)
• Pioneered metabolic surgery and laparoscopic colorectal surgery in Romania
• Established Ponderas Hospital as a regional center for specialized gastrointestinal care