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Best Rectal cancer doctors in Spain: TOP 8 doctors

Compare top Rectal cancer doctors and prices in Spain. Find your best match here.

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Medically reviewed by Fahad Mawlood

Medical Editor & Data Scientist

Top doctors

8

Spain

Reviews

14,000+

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Before and after gastric band results at Centro Médico Teknon – significant weight loss shown
Before and after gastric sleeve surgery results at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss
Before and after gastric balloon at Centro Médico Teknon, visible weight loss result
Before and after gastric balloon results at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss visible
Before and after gastric sleeve surgery at Centro Médico Teknon – significant weight loss result
Before and after gastric band results at Centro Médico Teknon – significant weight loss shown
Before and after gastric sleeve surgery results at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss
Before and after gastric bypass at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss result
Before and after gastric band results at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss visible
Before and after gastric bypass at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss results
Before and after gastric bypass at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss result
Before and after gastric balloon results at Centro Médico Teknon – significant weight loss
Before and after gastric band results at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss achieved
Before and after gastric bypass at Centro Médico Teknon, significant weight loss results
Before and after gastric sleeve surgery at Centro Médico Teknon, visible weight loss result
Before and after gastric balloon results at Centro Médico Teknon, visible weight loss transformation
Carlos Ballesta Lopez

Carlos Ballesta Lopez

46 years of experience
Clinic is certified
Joint Commission International
European Foundation for Quality Management
THE IMTJ MEDICAL TRAVEL AWARD WINNER IN 2019
+4
Location: Spain, Barcelona
Clinic:
4.7
Centro Médico Teknon

Over 12,000 laparoscopic surgeries performed – Dr. Ballesta Lopez pioneered minimally invasive techniques for rectal cancer at Centro Médico Teknon.

  • 46 years of experience of clinical experience in digestive surgery
  • Director of the Laparoscopic Center with Da Vinci robotic assistance
  • IFSO-accredited Center of Excellence for surgical precision
  • International trainer in advanced laparoscopic techniques
Package price from$1,757.41

13 people have requested a quote last month

Centro Médico Teknon
Elvira Buxó

Elvira Buxó

18 years of experience
Clinic is certified
Joint Commission International
European Foundation for Quality Management
THE IMTJ MEDICAL TRAVEL AWARD WINNER IN 2019
+4
Location: Spain, Barcelona
Clinic:
4.7
Centro Médico Teknon
Package price from$1,757.41
Centro Médico Teknon
Lana Bijelic

Lana Bijelic

28 years of experience
Clinic is certified
Joint Commission International
European Foundation for Quality Management
THE IMTJ MEDICAL TRAVEL AWARD WINNER IN 2019
+4
Location: Spain, Barcelona
Clinic:
4.7
Centro Médico Teknon

A specialist in peritoneal carcinomatosis – a complex pattern of advanced abdominal cancer. Dr. Bijelic trained directly under a world-renowned expert in this field.

  • American Board of Surgery certified oncological surgeon.
  • Expert member of the American Society of Peritoneal Surface Malignancies.
  • Performs cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).
  • Former Research Director at Inova Fairfax Hospital in the USA.
  • Holds multiple academic awards for surgical excellence and research.
Package price from$1,757.41
Centro Médico Teknon
Domenico Sabia

Domenico Sabia

24 years of experience
Clinic is certified
Joint Commission International
European Foundation for Quality Management
THE IMTJ MEDICAL TRAVEL AWARD WINNER IN 2019
+4
Location: Spain, Barcelona
Clinic:
4.7
Centro Médico Teknon

Specializes in advanced peritoneal and pelvic cancer surgery at Centro Médico Teknon – a leader in complex oncological procedures.

  • Over 24 years of experience focused on peritoneal and pelvic oncology
  • Active researcher and speaker at international cancer surgery congresses
  • Member of multiple prestigious surgical oncology associations
  • Performs both traditional and robotic-assisted procedures
Package price from$1,757.41
Quironsalud Torrevieja
joseba Rebollo Liceaga

joseba Rebollo Liceaga

36 years of experience
Clinic is certified
Joint Commission International
Location: Spain, Alicante
Clinic:
4.2
Quironsalud Torrevieja

Dr. Joseba Rebollo Liceaga brings over 36 years of experience of oncology experience, specializing in rectal cancer at Quironsalud Torrevieja.

  • Head of Oncology at Clínica San Miguel de Navarra for 36 years of experience
  • Authored research on electrochemotherapy and multidisciplinary treatments
  • Specialist in Medical Oncology from Clínica Universidad de Navarra
  • Associate Physician at University of Navarra's Faculty of Medicine
Doctor's visit Price on request
Hospital Quiron Barcelona
Antonio de Lacy Fortuny

Antonio de Lacy Fortuny

Clinic is certified
Joint Commission International
Location: Spain, Barcelona
Clinic:
4.4
Hospital Quiron Barcelona

15,000+ surgical procedures in – Dr. de Lacy specializes in minimally invasive techniques for rectal cancer at Hospital Quiron Barcelona.

  • Performs over 1,000 minimally invasive surgeries annually
  • Pioneer of TaTME technique for rectal cancer
  • President of the Association of Surgeons-Endoscopists in Europe
  • Lecturer on advanced laparoscopy techniques
Doctor's visit Price on request
GenesisCare Clinics
Escarlata Lopez

Escarlata Lopez

34 years of experience
Location: Spain, Madrid
Clinic:GenesisCare Clinics
Package price from$1,171.6
Hospital Universitario HM Sanchinarro
Antonio Cubillo Gracián

Antonio Cubillo Gracián

36 years of experience
Clinic is certified
European Foundation for Quality Management
Certification according to DIN EN ISO 9001 by TÜV NORD CERT
Location: Spain, Madrid
Clinic:Hospital Universitario HM Sanchinarro

Dr. Antonio Cubillo Gracián is a leading expert in oncology, with a strong focus on digestive system pathology and cancer research.

  • Director of postgraduate research Master's degree in clinical and applied oncology
  • Teaching experience in various oncology-related subjects at USP CEU
  • Specializes in digestive neoplasms and oral/maxillofacial oncology
  • Conducts international courses on digestive neoplasms at HM CIOCC
  • Tutor for medical students and residents in oncology practices
Doctor's visit Price on request

Choosing a clinic abroad can be stressful. At Bookimed, with over 800K patients helped, we understand your concerns. We know how to find trusted doctors, the best price-quality options, and solutions for even complex cases. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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3 years at Bookimed

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Choosing the Right Doctor and Clinic: Insider Tips

When selecting a doctor or clinic, keep these key points in mind:
Check credentials
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Review success rates
Choose doctors with solid experience and a proven track record in your specific treatment.
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Bookimed Insights: Top Rectal cancer Specialists in Spain (2026)

Bookimed has coordinated 8 requests for Rectal cancer treatment in Spain, collaborating with 8 top-rated specialists. The doctors in this table are selected based on their international credentials, clinical expertise, and patient outcomes. The 2026 ranking is formed using verified data from actual patient cases and current programs from our partner clinics.
RankDoctorexperienceGood Fit ForWhat Sets Them ApartClinic & LocationConsultation
#1
Carlos Ballesta Lopez
46 years of experienceMinimally invasive rectal surgeryPioneer in laparoscopic techniques with robotic assistance – reduces recovery time and postoperative pain. IFSO-accredited Center director and international surgical trainer.
Centro Médico Teknon
Spain
from $350
#2
Lana Bijelic
28 years of experiencePeritoneal carcinomatosis from rectal cancerExpert in cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC for peritoneal surface malignancies. Trained under Prof. Paul Sugarbaker, a pioneer in the field. American Board of Surgery certified and holds multiple surgical excellence awards.
Centro Médico Teknon
Spain
Price on request
#3
Domenico Sabia
24 years of experienceAdvanced peritoneal malignanciesFocuses exclusively on peritoneal surface malignancies – rare expertise among surgeons. Member of PSOGI and ESSO, with active research in oncological surgery.
Centro Médico Teknon
Spain
Price on request
#4
joseba Rebollo Liceaga
36 years of experienceMultidisciplinary rectal cancer careSpecializes in combining electrochemotherapy with other treatments – a leader in multidisciplinary approaches. Former Head of Oncology with published research.
Quironsalud Torrevieja
Spain
Price on request
#5
Antonio de Lacy Fortuny
Minimally invasive rectal surgeryPioneer of TaTME technique – trains other surgeons worldwide. Performs 1,000+ minimally invasive procedures annually. President of surgical endoscopy association.
Hospital Quiron Barcelona
Spain
Price on request
#6
Antonio Cubillo Gracián
36 years of experienceDigestive neoplasmsLeading educator in oncology with focus on digestive system pathology. Director of postgraduate research in clinical and applied oncology at HM CIOCC.
Hospital Universitario HM Sanchinarro
Spain
Price on request

FAQ

These FAQs come from real patients seeking medical assistance through Bookimed. Answers are given by experienced medical coordinators and trusted clinic representatives.

What are the primary treatment options for rectal cancer available in Spain?

Rectal cancer treatment in Spain utilizes multidisciplinary protocols including advanced robotic surgery, immunotherapy, and neoadjuvant chemoradiation. JCI-accredited centers in Barcelona and Madrid provide specialized techniques like transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) to improve tumor removal precision while preserving organ function.

  • Surgical gold standard: Total mesorectal excision (TME) remains the primary curative surgical approach.
  • Minimally invasive options: Surgeons use the Da Vinci robotic system for high-precision pelvic dissections.
  • Advanced chemotherapy: Treatment often includes FOLFOX or FOLFIRI regimens with targeted drug therapies.
  • Innovative techniques: HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) is available for advanced peritoneal involvement.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Spain is a global leader in surgical innovation. Dr. Antonio de Lacy Fortuny at Hospital Quiron Barcelona pioneered the TaTME technique. Specialized clinics like Centro Médico Teknon also combine 45+ years of surgical expertise with American Board-certified oncologists. This integration of global standards and pioneering local methods allows for high success rates in complex rectal resections.

Patient Consensus: Patients note that private care significantly reduces wait times compared to public options. They emphasize that while managing a temporary ileostomy is challenging, the surgical outcomes generally allow for a return to normal life.

Will I need a permanent colostomy (stoma)?

Permanent colostomy is usually not required for rectal cancer treatment in Spain. Most patients receive sphincter-sparing surgeries like low anterior resection. Spanish oncology centers report permanent stoma rates under 5% at specialized facilities. Surgeons use temporary stomas to allow bowel healing for 3 to 12 months.

  • Tumor location: Tumors over 5cm from the anus often allow reconnection without a stoma.
  • Advanced technology: Surgeons use Da Vinci robotic systems and TaTME for precise sphincter preservation.
  • Neoadjuvant therapy: Radiation or chemotherapy shrinks tumors to improve the chances of surgical reversal.
  • Sparing techniques: Specialized centers prioritize nerve-sparing approaches to maintain bowel and sexual function.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Spain is a global leader in rectal surgery innovation. Dr. Antonio de Lacy Fortuny at Hospital Quiron Barcelona pioneered the transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME). This technique allows surgeons to remove tumors very close to the anus while avoiding permanent bags. Clinics like Centro Médico Teknon manage over 10,000 patients annually. They often combine chemotherapy with minimally invasive robotic surgery to maximize the likelihood of restoration.

Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize monitoring tumor shrinkage through MRI to determine if a reversal is possible. Many note that preparing for a 6 to 12-month wait for reversal helps manage expectations during recovery.

What is the overall survival rate for rectal cancer treated in Spain?

Spain reports a 5-year survival rate of 62.5% to 65% for colorectal cancers. Early-stage rectal cancer survival reaches 90% in top Spanish oncology centers. Advanced Stage III cases maintain a 62% survival rate. High-volume hospitals use robotic-assisted surgery to improve these outcomes.

  • Early-stage survival: Patients diagnosed early see survival rates as high as 90%.
  • Advanced-stage survival: Stage III rectal cancer patients have a 62% average survival rate.
  • Metastatic survival: Stage IV cases currently report a survival rate of 10% to 16%.
  • Curative resection: Survival rises to 72.3% for patients undergoing potentially curative surgical resections.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Data from major Spanish centers highlights the impact of surgical volume on success. Dr. Antonio de Lacy Fortuny at Hospital Quiron Barcelona has performed over 15,000 procedures. This high concentration of expertise allows Spanish clinics to pioneer techniques like transanal total mesorectal excision. Choosing a high-volume surgeon who performs 1,000+ minimally invasive surgeries annually significantly supports long-term survival prospects.

Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize that Spain's multidisciplinary tumor boards provide rapid access to chemotherapy and radiation. Many note that prioritizing pelvic floor physical therapy immediately after surgery is essential for long-term quality of life.

Which cities and hospitals specialise in rectal-cancer care for international patients?

Barcelona and Madrid are the primary hubs for specialized rectal cancer care in Spain. Clinics like Centro Médico Teknon and Hospital Quiron Barcelona offer advanced therapies. These centers utilize JCI-accredited facilities and robotic-assisted techniques like the Da Vinci system to improve surgical precision.

  • Robotic protocols: Surgeons perform Da Vinci robotic-assisted resections for high precision.
  • Surgical expertise: Dr. Antonio de Lacy Fortuny has performed over 15,000 surgical procedures.
  • Global recognition: Navarra Hospital and Quironsalud Madrid rank among Newsweek World's Best Hospitals.
  • Advanced therapies: Specialized centers provide HIPEC and immunotherapy with drugs like Keytruda.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Barcelona centers demonstrate exceptional surgical volume that correlates with expertise. Dr. Antonio de Lacy Fortuny at Hospital Quiron Barcelona performs over 1,000 minimally invasive procedures annually. This high frequency helps surgeons master complex techniques like Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision (TaTME).

Patient Consensus: Patients highlight that private health chains provide seamless English-speaking coordination. Many note that these centers streamline the international process by bundling medical care with administrative support.

Are there ongoing clinical trials that might let me avoid surgery or radiation?

Organ preservation trials in Spain allow some patients to avoid surgery or radiation through targeted immunotherapy or intensive chemotherapy. Strategies like watch and wait are available for tumors that disappear completely after initial treatment. Eligibility often requires specific genetic markers like mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR).

  • Watch and wait: Monitoring tumors that show a complete clinical response after chemotherapy.
  • Immunotherapy trials: Using drugs like Keytruda to replace traditional surgery for dMMR tumors.
  • Organ preservation: Focusing on maintaining bowel and sphincter function through non-operative management.
  • Genetic mapping: Intensive biomarker testing for MSI, HER2, and KRAS to determine eligibility.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Quironsalud Madrid provides a unique pathway for patients to receive treatment for free by participating in active clinical trials. This is a significant advantage in Spain, as high-volume centers like Quironsalud Barcelona also collaborate with leading American institutes for advanced oncology research. Patients should prioritize hospitals with Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation to ensure trial protocols follow the highest safety standards.

Patient Consensus: Patients note it is important to get dMMR testing early to unlock non-surgical options. They emphasize that while avoiding radiation improves quality of life, you must commit to frequent, rigorous MRI scans.

What advanced surgical technologies are used to improve safety and function?

Spanish oncology centers use advanced technologies like the Da Vinci Xi robotic system and Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision to maximize safety. These tools enable precise tumor removal while preserving vital nerves. Surgeons also utilize fluorescence imaging to ensure healthy blood flow during complex rectal reconstructions.

  • Robotic-assisted surgery: Da Vinci Xi systems provide 3D visualization and filtered movements for precision.
  • Transanal access (TaTME): Surgeons reach low tumors from below to improve sphincter preservation rates.
  • Fluorescence-guided surgery: Indocyanine green angiography reduces anastomosis leaks by checking tissue perfusion real-time.
  • 3D pelvic modeling: AI-based planning maps autonomic nerves to protect urinary and sexual functions.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Spanish centers like Centro Médico Teknon and Hospital Quiron Barcelona offer a high volume of laparoscopic and robotic procedures. Teknon alone has performed over 12,000 laparoscopic surgeries. This high patient volume often leads to better preservation of autonomic nerves. Our data shows doctors like Dr. Carlos Ballesta Lopez have over 45 years of experience in these specialized techniques.

Patient Consensus: Patients note that choosing Spanish surgeons for complex low rectal tumors improves their chances of avoiding permanent colostomy bags. They also emphasize that international departments in Barcelona and Madrid help bridge communication gaps during specialized robotic treatments.