Top rectal cancer specialists in Spain include Dr. Antonio de Lacy Fortuny and Dr. Carlos Ballesta Lopez, who pioneered the TaTME technique for minimally invasive tumor removal. These experts practice at JCI-accredited centers like Hospital Quiron Barcelona and Centro Médico Teknon, specializing in robotic-assisted and organ-preserving surgeries.
- Dr. Antonio de Lacy Fortuny. Leading surgeon who performed the world's first transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME).
- Dr. Carlos Ballesta Lopez. Director with 45+ years of experience and 12,000+ successful laparoscopic procedures performed.
- Dr. Lana Bijelic. Board-certified specialist focused on advanced abdominal cancers and cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC.
- Dr. Antonio Cubillo Gracián. Oncology director at HM Sanchinarro specializing in complex digestive system neoplasms and research.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows a clear trend where top Spanish specialists like Dr. Antonio de Lacy Fortuny and Dr. Carlos Ballesta Lopez focus on 'natural orifice' surgery. They use techniques like NOTES and TaTME to remove tumors through natural openings. This approach avoids large external incisions, which significantly reduces recovery time and post-operative pain for patients.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize choosing multidisciplinary teams in Madrid or Barcelona to ensure surgeons and oncologists coordinate care. Many found that seeking a second opinion helped them explore organ-preserving treatments instead of rushing into surgery. They recommend bringing detailed MRI staging to consultations to discuss preserving bowel and sexual function.
