Upper GI Surgery • General Surgery • Endoscopy
Gallbladder surgery is a surgical procedure that is performed to remove the gallbladder, an organ located in the lower part of the liver that serves as a reserve for bile.
A hernia appears as a lump, most commonly in the abdominal or groin area. They occur when an organ, often the bowel, protrudes through the cavity which normally contains it.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder where acid from the stomach leaks back into the oesophagus and causes irritation and discomfort daily.
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique which allows the surgeon to operate without the need for deep or large incisions in the skin. This technique is also known as keyhole surgery.
Gastroscopy is a clinical diagnostic test. Using a thin tube (an endoscope), the inside of the oesophagus, the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum) can be visualised.
Robotic surgery employs advanced technology and precision instruments to perform a range of general surgical procedures with enhanced accuracy, control, and improved patient outcomes.
Mr. Antonios Athanasiou is a Consultant Surgeon at University Hospitals Sussex, based at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton. He specialises in general and upper gastrointestinal (GI) surgery, with a particular focus on minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques. His areas of expertise include treating gallbladder problems, hernias (such as inguinal and hiatus), acid reflux, and a range of upper GI conditions.
Mr. Athanasiou leads the Upper GI surgery team at the hospital and is passionate about bringing the latest surgical techniques to patient care. In 2022, he established the Upper GI Robotic Surgery Service at the Trust and has since carried out over 500 successful robotic procedures using the Da Vinci system. This approach allows for greater precision, smaller incisions, and quicker recovery times for patients.
He trained extensively in both general and specialist upper GI surgery, completing a highly regarded fellowship at St James’s University Hospital in Leeds.
He is experienced in managing both routine and emergency surgical cases and is committed to offering personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
In addition to his clinical work, Mr. Athanasiou is actively involved in research and education. He holds a PhD in liver regeneration and has published over 150 scientific articles on topics such as surgical innovation and improving patient care. As a Senior Lecturer at Brighton & Sussex Medical School, he helps train future surgeons and supports junior doctors throughout their careers.
Above all, Mr. Athanasiou is known for his clear, compassionate communication and patient-centred approach. He takes time to explain each step of the treatment journey, making sure his patients feel informed, reassured, and involved in their care decisions.
