Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass with Double IFSO-EC/SRC Certification at JCI Hospital
$13,190
/ Catalin Copaescu
33
years of experience
Catalin Copaescu
- Specialization: General surgeon
- 33 years of experience
- Speaks:English, Romanian
- Workplace: Romania, Bucharest, Ponderas Academic Hospital
- First surgeon in Romania with both European (IFSO-EC) and American (SRC) certification in metabolic and bariatric surgery; a pioneer in the field.
Dr. Catalin Copaescu is the first surgeon in Romania to hold both European (IFSO-EC) and American (SRC) certifications in bariatric surgery. He serves as the Director of the Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence at Ponderas Academic Hospital. Dr. Copaescu performs over 1,000 minimally invasive procedures each year. He specializes in laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries for metabolic, colorectal, and hernia conditions.
- Pioneered metabolic surgery and laparoscopic colorectal surgery in Romania.
- Executive Director of the Bucharest Surgical Training Institute.
- Directs over 12 hands-on surgical courses for international teams annually.
- Associated Professor at two major Romanian medical universities.
Explore package deals with Dr. Catalin Copaescu
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per package
Revisional Gastric Sleeve Surgery for Long-Term Weight Management Success
$15,025
/ Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy with Double European/American Board Certification
$9,575
/ The package includes a standard range of medical services offered by the clinic and additional benefits like accommodation, transfer, etc.
Excellent score
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Learn more about reviews.1-4 of 4 reviews
Christina • Removal of herniated disc with preoperative diagnostic
Romania
Mar 19, 2026
10/10
One of my biggest fears while living in Romania was a major medical event. When I learned that I needed back surgery I was terrified. I started to research neurosurgeons, and needed up on bookimed, and then to Ponderas. I was becoming more comfortable as we went through setting up the consultation, and once we were there and met the coordinator and the surgeon, we felt much better. They answered all our questions and helped to accommodate the long drive we had to make. After checking in for surgery, the medical staff were so caring and kind. Even the little special touches, as in the picture. I feel like they gave me a good idea of recovery, and what to expect at home. 10/10
The process was very organized and everyone was careful to explain each part of the process. All of the staff were so kind and helpful. The nurses and even the man who transported me to the car was so careful and kind.
The food was pretty bad. At least there was food though.
About Bookimed service
Veronica was awesome! She didn’t just help set it up, but she checked on me after and made sure I was ok. Such a blessing for me. Thank you Veronica!
Cristina
United Kingdom
Apr 9, 2026
Everything was handled so well
Waking up from the anesthesia, the first thing I noticed was the calm and attentive presence of the nursing staff. That feeling of being cared for really defined my entire stay. My surgeon was professional and reassuring from the very first consultation for my osteoma. I'm now 15 days post-op, and while recovery is a process, the support has been consistent. Honestly, from the initial planning to the clinic environment itself, I can’t point to a single thing that could have been better. Everything was handled so well. I genuinely felt that the entire team, from the administrative staff to the medical professionals, was excellent.
I could not recommend enough, from bookimed to ponderas hospital, the whole experience was excellent. The complexity of the intervention that I had done was executed flawlessly (osteoma removal/septum correction+turbinotomy). Dr Manea is an exceptional ENT specialist with amazing knowledge and skills, best in the country, he makes sure you feel seen, listen and you understand exactly every step.The hospital is very well equipped and comfortable.Everyone speaks English so communication was clear , smooth and precise . I would like to thank my coordinator Olha from bookimed for all the support and that she made sure I get exactly what I need and request.
Игорь • Coronary angiography
Ukraine
May 12, 2025
Anonymous • CT coronary angiography
Ukraine
May 11, 2025
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Qualifications
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
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