Bologna is recognized for having a robust community of general surgeons who manage a wide range of abdominal, gastrointestinal, emergency, and oncologic surgery. These top general surgeons in Bologna handle hernias, gallbladder removal, appendicitis, colorectal resections, liver surgery, gastric surgery, bariatric procedures, minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgery, hepatobiliary surgery, trauma surgery, and acute care. Clinics and hospitals in Bologna are equipped with modern operating theatres, robotic platforms, laparoscopic tools, endoscopy units, high-resolution imaging, intensive postoperative care, and strong teamwork with anesthesiology, critical care, radiology, and pathology departments to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
In Italy, general surgery remains a core surgical specialty with significant demand. It is estimated that millions of general surgical operations occur each year across the country, covering appendectomies, hernia repairs, cholecystectomies, oncologic resections, and abdominal trauma. Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic and robotic) has been growing, with many Italian centres now performing over 50 percent of elective abdominal procedures via laparoscopy. Bologna, home to the University Hospital Sant’Orsola-Malpighi, reports high volumes in complex gastrointestinal and oncological surgeries, especially liver resections and colorectal cancer operations. The number of bariatric surgeries has also increased in Italy by double digits in the past five years. Survival rates after colorectal cancer surgery and postoperative mortality in general surgery in major Italian centres like Bologna are among the best in the national benchmarks, reflecting well-developed surgical standards, postoperative care, low complication rates, and strong accreditation.
General surgery is a field where skill, experience, and modern facilities make a major difference. Bologna offers a combination of all the right elements for patients seeking abdominal, gastrointestinal, or emergency surgery.
➤ Strong academic & teaching tradition – Many general surgeons work at the University of Bologna and Sant’Orsola Hospital. They combine surgical practice with research, innovation, and continuous training, which helps them remain current with best practices.
➤ Broad surgical expertise – Surgeons in Bologna treat a full spectrum: appendicitis, gallbladder disease, hernias, bariatric surgery, liver, pancreas, colorectal cancer, stomach disorders, trauma, and emergency general surgery.
➤ Minimally invasive & robotic techniques – The city’s hospitals are equipped for laparoscopic, robotic, video-assisted, and keyhole surgery, reducing recovery time, minimizing scarring, and enhancing precision.
➤ High case volume & outcomes – High numbers of oncologic resections, bariatric operations, emergency surgeries, and benign abdominal procedures contribute to surgical proficiency, low complication rates, and faster patient recovery.
➤ Integrated perioperative & postoperative care – From diagnostic imaging and preoperative assessment to intensive care, pain management, and rehabilitation, patients in Bologna benefit from seamless, multidisciplinary surgical pathways.
➤ Access via public and private health sectors – Treatments can be accessed through Italy’s National Health Service (SSN) or private clinics, giving patients flexibility in scheduling, comfort, and cost.
Here are at least five of the most respected general surgeons in Bologna, what they specialize in, and what distinguishes their practice:
Prof. Gilberto Poggioli
Prof. Poggioli is a Full Professor of General Surgery at the University of Bologna and Chief of the Division of General Surgery at Sant’Orsola-Malpighi. He has performed numerous colorectal cancer resections, restorative proctocolectomies for ulcerative colitis, and surgery for Crohn’s disease. His approach balances preservation of function, minimally invasive techniques, and oncologic safety.
Prof. Antonio Gangemi
Prof. Gangemi leads the Innovative Surgical and Interventional Techniques unit at the University of Bologna. He specializes in robotic surgery for obesity, hiatal hernia, reflux disease (GERD), and other upper GI disorders. His reputation includes precision robotic techniques and research on improving patient outcomes after bariatric and foregut operations.
Prof. Matteo Ravaioli
Prof. Ravaioli serves at Sant’Orsola Hospital, where he performs liver transplants, large liver resections, kidney transplants, gastric resections, and colon surgery. He also teaches residents and fellows, overseeing complex operations including transplant work and high-risk GI surgery.
Prof. Fausto Catena
Prof. Catena has held senior roles in Bologna’s surgical departments, particularly in emergency and general surgery. He is known for work on peritoneal carcinomatosis, HIPEC, abdominal wall reconstruction, hernia repair, emergency interventions, and trauma surgery. His ability to manage complex emergencies is widely respected.
Finding the right general surgeon can make a significant difference in outcomes, recovery, and comfort. Best Clinic Abroad supports patients seeking abdominal, gastrointestinal, or emergency surgeries in Bologna from start to finish.
We begin by reviewing your condition, diagnostics, surgery risk factors, and preferences so we can match you with surgeons who have proven skills in your specific problem. We also arrange for second opinions to verify surgical plans and ensure the best approach is selected.
➤ Personalized surgeon matching – Based on your diagnosis (hernia, liver disease, colorectal cancer, bariatric issues, emergency surgery, etc.), we suggest general surgeons in Bologna whose expertise aligns closely with your needs.
➤ Pre-operative diagnostic coordination – We help schedule imaging, labs, assessments, anesthetic evaluation, and minimally invasive or robotic surgery planning.
➤ Appointment scheduling & hospital logistics – We manage booking surgeons, arranging hospital admissions, and confirming operating theatre schedules so your treatment path is smooth.
➤ Transparent cost estimation – We provide a full breakdown for consultation, surgeon fees, hospital stay, operating room, instruments, postoperative care, and follow-ups so you have clear financial visibility.
➤ Support for international patients – Assistance with travel, accommodation, interpreters, understanding private vs. public health options, and guidance in navigating the health-care system.
➤ Postoperative care & recovery planning – After surgery, we coordinate pain management, wound care, rehabilitation, diet and lifestyle advice, monitoring recovery, and addressing concerns quickly.
With Best Clinic Abroad, you gain access to Bologna’s leading general surgeons and modern hospital facilities. Whether you require elective procedures, emergency surgery, or complex cancer operations, you will be cared for by experienced surgical teams. Your health, recovery, and surgical success are our priority.
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