Abdominal surgeon Assoc. Prof. Borna Kovačić, MD, PhD, has joined the IMC Priora team, bringing extensive experience in the treatment of gallstones, hernias, hemorrhoids, and other gastrointestinal conditions using modern minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Assoc. Prof. Borna Kovačić, MD, PhD, specialist in abdominal surgery, has joined the International Medical Center Priora as a consulting surgeon. As a general and abdominal surgeon, Dr. Kovačić specializes in the surgical treatment of diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine, liver, pancreas, and biliary system, including complex oncological procedures. Alongside his clinical work, he is actively involved in medical education and the professional development of surgical practice.
What will be the focus of your work at IMC Priora?
– I will primarily focus on the conditions we encounter most frequently in our population, including gallstones, hernias—both inguinal and abdominal wall hernias—as well as diseases affecting the lower part of the large intestine and anus, such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
Which modern surgical techniques do you use today?
– Around three decades ago, surgery experienced a breakthrough with the introduction of laparoscopy. Today, we are witnessing another revolution with the development of robotic surgery, which is primarily used for more complex abdominal procedures. However, for most abdominal conditions, laparoscopic surgery remains the gold standard because it offers all the benefits of minimally invasive treatment.
How can patients recognize symptoms caused by gallstones?
– Many patients discover gallstones incidentally during routine medical examinations. However, a large proportion of people with gallstones also experience symptoms, which are most commonly related to eating and typically occur after consuming fatty foods or fresh fruit and vegetables. The most common symptoms include pain beneath the right rib cage, upper abdominal pain, pain radiating to the back, nausea, and vomiting.
How do you know when surgery is necessary?
– Surgery is recommended whenever gallstones cause symptoms, regardless of whether the patient is younger or older, provided there are no serious underlying medical conditions. In elderly patients or those with significant comorbidities, treatment decisions require particular caution.
What complications can occur if gallstones are left untreated?
– The most common complications are acute inflammation of the gallbladder (acute cholecystitis) and acute pancreatitis. The type of complication often depends on the size of the stones. Larger stones are more likely to cause gallbladder inflammation. In comparison, smaller stones can migrate into the common bile duct and become lodged near its opening into the duodenum, potentially leading to jaundice or acute pancreatitis.
Many people live with a hernia for years. Can it disappear on its own, or will it continue to grow?
– No, a hernia cannot resolve on its own. It may remain the same size for some time, but it is more likely to enlarge over time. Smaller hernias usually cause only mild discomfort during physical activity, whereas larger hernias tend to produce more significant symptoms. One of the most serious complications is incarceration, which often requires emergency surgery. In some cases, the hernia can be manually reduced back into the abdominal cavity. However, if this is not possible, urgent surgical treatment is necessary. Emergency hernia surgery is generally associated with a higher risk of complications than planned elective surgery.
When is surgical treatment recommended for hemorrhoids?
– Hemorrhoids are a condition that many people find difficult to discuss because they affect an intimate part of the body. Surgical treatment is indicated when symptomatic hemorrhoids do not respond to conservative therapy.
Symptoms may include discomfort, burning, itching in the anal area, pain, and, in more advanced cases, bleeding. Like hernias, hemorrhoids do not disappear on their own. Over time, they may enlarge, leading to inflammation and other complications.
How do hemorrhoids develop? Can they be prevented?
– Hemorrhoids develop due to a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, lifestyle, chronic constipation, hard stools, prolonged sitting on the toilet, heavy physical exertion, pregnancy, and childbirth. In general, anything that increases abdominal pressure can contribute to their development. The best prevention is maintaining healthy lifestyle habits—minimizing prolonged sitting and consuming a diet rich in dietary fiber.
