Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis, MD, MSc, is a General Surgeon and Director of a Surgical Department at Metropolitan Hospital in Athens. He specializes in laparoscopic surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, surgical oncology and minimally invasive techniques, with particular experience in the treatment of colorectal disorders, abdominal wall hernias, gallbladder conditions and gastrointestinal tumors.

His professional background combines advanced surgical training in Greece with specialist education at established medical institutions in the United Kingdom, France and Denmark. Through his clinical practice, Dr. Kontostolis focuses on providing individualized surgical care, with particular attention to patient safety, appropriate treatment selection and postoperative recovery.

Profile Overview

Vasileios Kontostolis is a General Surgeon with extensive experience in abdominal surgery, minimally invasive procedures and the surgical management of gastrointestinal diseases.

He graduated from the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and obtained his specialist qualification in General Surgery in 2015. Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis subsequently expanded his academic and clinical expertise through postgraduate studies in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and advanced training in laparoscopic techniques.

His international education includes specialist training at the University of Strasbourg in France, where he obtained a university diploma in Laparoscopic Surgery. He also gained experience at several major healthcare institutions in the United Kingdom, including Manchester Royal Infirmary, Royal Bolton Hospital and The Christie Hospital.

His professional development further includes a fellowship in laparoscopic colorectal surgery at Aarhus University in Denmark, strengthening his expertise in minimally invasive procedures involving the colon and rectum.

Today, Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis serves as Director of a Surgical Department at Metropolitan Hospital in Athens. His clinical practice encompasses a broad range of general and gastrointestinal surgical conditions, with particular emphasis on laparoscopic surgery, colorectal procedures, abdominal wall reconstruction and the surgical treatment of gastrointestinal tumors.

Alongside his clinical responsibilities, he maintains an active interest in medical research and continuing surgical education, contributing to international scientific publications and participating in professional conferences.

Current Position Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis Has

• General Surgeon and Director of a Surgical Department at Metropolitan Hospital, Athens.
• Specialist in Laparoscopic and Minimally Invasive General Surgery.
• Surgeon with particular expertise in colorectal surgery, abdominal wall hernias and gastrointestinal procedures.
• General Surgeon with advanced training in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery.
• PhD Candidate at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.

His clinical responsibilities include the diagnosis and surgical management of abdominal and gastrointestinal conditions, as well as the development of individualized treatment plans for patients requiring elective or specialized surgical intervention.

Education & Academic Background

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis has completed extensive medical and postgraduate training in General Surgery, with additional specialization in advanced laparoscopic and gastrointestinal surgical techniques.

His academic qualifications and specialist training include:

• Medical Degree, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
• Specialist Qualification in General Surgery, 2015.
• University Diploma in Laparoscopic Surgery, University of Strasbourg, France.
• Master of Science (MSc) in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece.
• PhD Candidate, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
• Advanced specialist training in laparoscopic colorectal surgery.
• International clinical training in upper gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery.

His educational background provides a comprehensive foundation in conventional General Surgery, complemented by advanced training in minimally invasive techniques and complex gastrointestinal procedures.

International Surgical Training

International education has played an important role in the professional development of Vasileios Kontostolis. Following his initial surgical training in Greece, he pursued additional specialist education at major European hospitals and academic institutions.

His international experience includes:

University of Strasbourg, France

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis obtained a University Diploma in Laparoscopic Surgery from the University of Strasbourg, an institution recognized for its educational activities in minimally invasive surgical techniques.

This postgraduate training provided an opportunity to develop his knowledge of laparoscopic instruments, surgical anatomy and advanced operative approaches.

Laparoscopic surgery requires specialized technical skills, including the ability to perform precise surgical maneuvers using instruments introduced through small abdominal incisions.

His training in this field contributed to the development of his minimally invasive surgical practice, particularly in abdominal and gastrointestinal procedures.

Manchester Royal Infirmary, United Kingdom

At Manchester Royal Infirmary, Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis received further clinical training within the Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Unit.

This specialist field focuses on conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas, including complex benign disorders and malignant diseases.

His experience at the institution contributed to his broader understanding of advanced gastrointestinal surgery and the multidisciplinary management of patients with hepatobiliary and pancreatic conditions.

Royal Bolton Hospital, United Kingdom

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis also completed specialist training at the Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery Unit of Royal Bolton Hospital.

Upper gastrointestinal surgery encompasses conditions affecting the stomach, esophagus and related anatomical structures.

His training provided additional experience in the evaluation and surgical management of upper digestive tract disorders, complementing his broader background in abdominal surgery.

The Christie Hospital, Manchester

Another important stage of his international education was his training at The Christie Hospital in Manchester, a specialist healthcare institution dedicated to cancer treatment. His clinical experience focused on colorectal surgery and minimally invasive surgical approaches.

This training strengthened his knowledge of the surgical management of colorectal tumors and the importance of multidisciplinary treatment planning in patients with gastrointestinal malignancies.

The management of colorectal cancer may involve collaboration between surgeons, medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and other healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy.

Aarhus University, Denmark

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis further developed his expertise in minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery through a Laparoscopic Colorectal Fellowship at Aarhus University.

His training focused on advanced laparoscopic techniques used in surgical procedures involving the colon and rectum.

These procedures require detailed anatomical knowledge, careful tissue handling and precise surgical planning, particularly when treating complex colorectal conditions.

His international fellowship contributed to his experience in contemporary colorectal surgery and the application of minimally invasive techniques to selected gastrointestinal diseases.

Clinical Expertise

Laparoscopic & Minimally Invasive Surgery

Laparoscopic surgery is one of the principal areas of specialization of Vasileios Kontostolis. Unlike conventional open surgery, laparoscopic procedures are performed through several small incisions using a camera and specialized surgical instruments.

The camera provides a magnified view of the operative field, allowing the surgeon to access internal abdominal structures while limiting the size of the surgical incisions.

When clinically appropriate, laparoscopic surgery may offer benefits such as reduced postoperative discomfort, shorter hospital stays and an earlier return to everyday activities compared with traditional open procedures.

However, the suitability of minimally invasive surgery depends on several factors, including the underlying condition, the patient’s anatomy, previous abdominal operations and the complexity of the required intervention.

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis applies laparoscopic techniques in selected abdominal and gastrointestinal procedures, developing individualized surgical plans according to each patient’s clinical needs.

Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal surgery represents another important area of Dr. Kontostolis’ clinical practice. The colon and rectum can be affected by a wide range of conditions, including inflammatory disorders, diverticular disease, benign tumors and colorectal cancer.

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis has received advanced training in colorectal surgery at The Christie Hospital in Manchester and Aarhus University in Denmark, gaining experience in contemporary surgical approaches to diseases of the large intestine.

His clinical practice includes the assessment and surgical management of colorectal conditions, with particular emphasis on minimally invasive techniques when appropriate.

The choice of procedure depends on the location and extent of the disease, the patient’s overall health and the objectives of treatment.

Colorectal Cancer Surgery

The surgical treatment of colorectal cancer is an important component of modern gastrointestinal surgery. Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis’ specialist training in colorectal and oncological surgery provides a foundation for evaluating patients with gastrointestinal tumors and determining appropriate surgical options.

Gastric & Pancreatic Surgery

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis has undertaken specialist training in the surgical management of conditions affecting the stomach, pancreas and other organs of the digestive system. His international education at Manchester Royal Infirmary and Royal Bolton Hospital provided experience in hepatobiliary, pancreatic and upper gastrointestinal surgery. Dr. Kontostolis’ postgraduate studies in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery complement his clinical training and broader expertise in gastrointestinal procedures.

Abdominal Wall Hernia Surgery

Abdominal wall hernias are among the common conditions treated by General Surgeons. A hernia develops when tissue or an internal organ protrudes through an area of weakness in the surrounding muscular or connective tissue. Common types include inguinal, umbilical, epigastric and incisional hernias.

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis evaluates the type, size and anatomical characteristics of each hernia before determining whether surgical repair is appropriate. Treatment may involve conventional open surgery or a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach, depending on the individual case.

For selected patients, the use of surgical mesh may be recommended to reinforce the abdominal wall and reduce the risk of recurrence. The objective is to provide a durable repair while considering the patient’s symptoms, medical history and postoperative recovery.

Gallbladder Surgery & Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Gallbladder disorders represent another important area of Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis’ clinical practice. Gallstones are a common condition that may remain asymptomatic or cause episodes of abdominal pain, nausea and other digestive symptoms.

Dr. Kontostolis evaluates the patient’s symptoms, imaging findings and overall medical condition before recommending the most appropriate treatment strategy. Not all patients with gallstones require surgery, and treatment decisions should be based on the presence of symptoms, complications and individual clinical circumstances.

Proctology & Laser-Assisted Procedures

In addition to his expertise in abdominal and gastrointestinal surgery, Dr. Kontostolis provides assessment and treatment for selected anorectal disorders. These conditions may include hemorrhoidal disease, anal fistulas and other disorders affecting the anus and rectum.

Professional Career

Throughout his career, Vasileios Kontostolis has combined hospital-based surgical practice with advanced international training and clinical leadership responsibilities.

His professional background includes:

• Director of a Surgical Department, Metropolitan Hospital, Athens.
• Specialist training in General Surgery at the Second Surgical Department of Piraeus General Hospital.
• Advanced training in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery at Manchester Royal Infirmary, United Kingdom.
• Specialist training in Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery at Royal Bolton Hospital, United Kingdom.
• Clinical training in Colorectal and Minimally Invasive Surgery at The Christie Hospital, Manchester.
• Laparoscopic Colorectal Fellowship, Aarhus University, Denmark.
• Postgraduate education in Laparoscopic Surgery, University of Strasbourg, France.

His professional experience encompasses a broad spectrum of General Surgery, with particular emphasis on abdominal, gastrointestinal and minimally invasive procedures.

Scientific & Academic Activity

Alongside his clinical responsibilities, Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis maintains an active interest in medical research and continuing surgical education. He holds a postgraduate qualification in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery from the Democritus University of Thrace and is a PhD candidate at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.

His scientific activities include contributions to international medical publications and participation in surgical conferences and educational programmes.

Through his international training and academic involvement, he remains engaged with developments in minimally invasive surgery, gastrointestinal procedures and surgical oncology.

His professional affiliations include:

• Medical Association of Piraeus.
• Hellenic Surgical Society.
• European Digestive Surgery Society.
• European Society of Surgical Oncology.

Participation in professional scientific organizations supports his continuing medical education and engagement with contemporary surgical research and clinical developments.

An Individualized Approach to Surgical Treatment

One of the central principles of Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis’ clinical philosophy is the selection of the most appropriate surgical approach for each patient. Although modern minimally invasive techniques have expanded the possibilities of abdominal surgery, the choice of procedure should always be based on the underlying condition and the patient’s individual medical needs.

Factors such as disease severity, previous surgical history, anatomical characteristics and overall health may influence whether laparoscopic or conventional open surgery is more appropriate.

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis emphasizes comprehensive preoperative evaluation and clear communication regarding the available treatment options.

Patients are informed about the proposed procedure, its expected benefits, potential risks and the recovery process before making a treatment decision.

When clinically appropriate, minimally invasive techniques may help reduce surgical trauma and facilitate recovery. However, the primary objective remains the safe and effective treatment of the underlying disease.

Postoperative monitoring and individualized recovery recommendations also form important parts of the overall surgical care process.

When Should You Consult a General Surgeon?

A consultation with a General Surgeon may be appropriate when symptoms suggest a condition affecting the abdominal organs, gastrointestinal tract or abdominal wall.

Common reasons for seeking specialist evaluation include persistent or recurrent abdominal pain, symptomatic gallstones, a visible abdominal or groin bulge, and symptoms associated with hemorrhoidal disease.

Patients diagnosed with gastrointestinal tumors, complex colorectal disorders or conditions involving the stomach, gallbladder or pancreas may also require specialized surgical assessment.

The purpose of the consultation is to establish an accurate diagnosis and determine whether conservative treatment, additional investigations or surgical intervention is appropriate.

Not every gastrointestinal or abdominal condition requires surgery. Treatment decisions depend on the underlying diagnosis, the severity of symptoms and the patient’s overall medical condition.

Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, especially when accompanied by persistent vomiting, fever, abdominal rigidity or an irreducible painful hernia, requires urgent medical assessment.

Why Choose Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis?

Dr. Vasileios Kontostolis combines extensive clinical experience in General Surgery with advanced international training in laparoscopic techniques, gastrointestinal surgery and surgical oncology.

His professional background includes postgraduate education at the University of Strasbourg and specialist clinical training at established healthcare institutions in the United Kingdom and Denmark.

His experience at Manchester Royal Infirmary, Royal Bolton Hospital, The Christie Hospital and Aarhus University has contributed to his expertise in hepatobiliary, pancreatic, upper gastrointestinal and colorectal surgery.

His current role as Director of a Surgical Department at Metropolitan Hospital reflects his broad clinical practice and his involvement in the management of patients requiring specialized abdominal and gastrointestinal procedures.

Particular emphasis is placed on minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopic colorectal procedures, abdominal wall hernia repair and laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

His clinical approach combines detailed preoperative assessment, individualized surgical planning and careful consideration of the patient’s recovery and long-term functional needs.

For patients seeking specialist assessment or surgical treatment of abdominal and gastrointestinal conditions, Vasileios Kontostolis offers a comprehensive approach based on international surgical training, contemporary techniques and evidence-based clinical practice.

He is also featured in the Athens Pulse guide to the best general surgeons in Athens, which presents his professional background, international education and experience in minimally invasive and gastrointestinal surgery.