The Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy Gastroenterology Clinic is one of the most specialized centers for endoscopic diagnosis and treatment in Greece. Procedures are performed in a dedicated endo-surgical suite equipped with state-of-the-art endoscopic systems (Exera III 190 series, Olympus – Tokyo, Japan).
Our primary goal is to ensure maximum patient safety and the highest level of technical and clinical effectiveness, even in the most demanding endoscopic procedures.
Advanced Diagnostic Endoscopic Procedures
The Clinic has extensive experience in magnification chromoendoscopy (Image Enhanced Endoscopy) of the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract for the detection of early cancerous lesions. Particular emphasis is placed on patients with Barrett’s esophagus and gastric intestinal metaplasia. All endoscopic procedures are performed using high-definition (HD) systems, Dual Focus technology, and narrow-band imaging (NBI), always under anesthesiologist supervision.
Advanced Interventional Techniques for Early Malignancies
Our Clinic is internationally recognized for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), a technique for the removal of early malignant lesions of the esophagus, stomach, and colon. The Clinic holds international certification and serves as a referral center in Greece, performing more than 130 ESD procedures annually.
All procedures are carried out in accordance with the guidelines of ESGE, ASGE, and JGES.
Treatment of Benign Conditions with Advanced Endoscopic Techniques
The Clinic applies modern endoscopic therapies for benign conditions such as:
- Esophageal achalasia (POEM)
- Zenker’s diverticulum (Z-POEM)
- Gastroparesis (G-POEM)
These techniques provide outcomes comparable to surgical interventions, with minimal morbidity and rapid recovery.
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
The Clinic has extensive experience in performing ERCP for the diagnosis and treatment of biliary and pancreatic diseases.
Special expertise is offered in cholangioscopy using the SpyGlass system (Boston Scientific), enabling precise visualization and targeted therapy in complex cases.
Endoscopic Resection and Treatment of Barrett’s Esophagus
Techniques such as endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are applied for the treatment of Barrett’s esophagus and the prevention of complications.
Scientific Experience and Educational Activity
The Clinic has extensive experience including:
- 800 ESD cases
- 3.000 ERCP procedures
- 2.000 EMR procedures
Results are presented annually at the Hellenic Congress of Gastroenterology and at international scientific forums, including educational video cases for continuing medical education.
International Collaborations
The Clinic collaborates with leading international centers of endoscopic excellence:
- Shizuoka Cancer Center (Japan)
- Kitasato University (Japan)
- Erasmus MC (Rotterdam, Netherlands)
These collaborations enhance continuous medical training and the transfer of expertise to Greece.
Specialization in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
The Clinic includes a specialized unit for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, offering a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, treatment, and patient follow-up. Our goal is to achieve clinical and endoscopic remission and to improve patients’ quality of life, in line with the latest scientific evidence.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Management
- Clinical, laboratory, endoscopic, and imaging evaluation
- Personalized treatment plans in accordance with ECCO and national IBD guidelines
- Administration of biologic agents at the Metropolitan General One Day Clinic or at home
- Prescription through the national healthcare system (EOPYY) with all required documentation
Monitoring and Endoscopic Surveillance
- Regular follow-up using laboratory and endoscopic markers
- Chromoendoscopy for the detection of premalignant lesions
- Application of advanced techniques (EMR, ESD, ERCP) in patients with IBD
- Multidisciplinary team approach for the management of complex cases
Scientific Responsibility
The IBD Unit is led by Dr. Matina-Lydia Chatzinikolaou, Consultant Gastroenterologist, who has received further training at the Royal Free Hospital in London.
She is a member of ECCO and the Hellenic IBD Society, with active research and publication work and participation in national and international conferences.