Ponderas Academic Hospital

4.5 stars ·

Ponderas Academic Hospital is a leading private multi-specialty medical center in Bucharest, renowned for bariatric, metabolic, orthopedic, and minimally invasive robotic surgeries. It holds 10 international accreditations including JCI, SRC, and IFSO, making it a top choice for international patients seeking high-quality care at competitive prices. Surgeons like Prof. Dr. Cătălin Copăescu and Dr. Vlad Predescu, with over 30 years of experience, lead its centers of excellence.

88%
Satisfaction Rate
2011
Established
10,000+
Procedures

Certifications & Accreditations

Centers of Excellence accreditations (Surgical Review Corporation (SRC))
Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) Center of Excellence - Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation)
Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) Center of Excellence - Minimally Invasive Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation)
Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) Center of Excellence - Orthopedic Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation)
Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) Center of Excellence - Robotic Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation)
International Accreditation for Bariatric Surgery (IFSO)
International accreditations (JCI, SRC, and IFSO)
Joint Commission International (JCI) Accreditation (Joint Commission International)
Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation (SRC))
Center of Excellence in Breast Treatment (Surgical Review Corporation (SRC))
Center of Excellence in Orthopedic Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation (SRC))
Joint Commission International (JCI)
JCI Accreditation (Joint Commission International)
Center of Excellence in Orthopedic Surgery (COEOS) (Surgical Review Corporation)
Center of Excellence in Colorectal Surgery (COECS) (Surgical Review Corporation)
Center of Excellence in Hernia Surgery (COEHS) (Surgical Review Corporation)
Center of Excellence in Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (COEMBS) (Surgical Review Corporation)
Center of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Surgery (COEMIS) (Surgical Review Corporation)
Robotic Surgery Center of Excellence
MTA Accreditation (Medical Travel Accreditation)
SRC Center of Excellence (Surgical Review Corporation)
IFSO Accreditation (International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders)
EAC-BS (European Association for the Study of Obesity - Bariatric Surgery)
Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) Center of Excellence - Breast Treatment (Surgical Review Corporation)
Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) Center of Excellence - Colorectal Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation)
Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) Center of Excellence - Hernia Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation)
Center of Excellence in Hernia Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation (SRC))
Center of Excellence in Colorectal Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation (SRC))
Center of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation (SRC))
International Center of Excellence for Bariatric Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation (SRC))
Center of Excellence in Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (Surgical Review Corporation)
Center of Excellence in Bariatric Surgery (IFSO-EC (International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders - European Chapter))
Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence (IFSO-EC)

Our Treatments

Arthroscopy

$3,000 - $8,000

Minimally invasive joint surgery

1-6 weeks
30-90 minutes
  • Recovery: 1-6 weeks
  • Duration: 30-90 minutes
  • Anesthesia: local

Pacemaker Implant

$3,400 - $5,000

Cardiac pacemaker insertion

2-4 weeks
1-2 hours
  • Recovery: 2-4 weeks
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Anesthesia: local

Orthopedics

$8,000 - $15,000

Surgical procedures focused on the musculoskeletal system

95.0% success

Knee/Hip Replacement

$12,000 - $18,000

Joint replacement surgery for improved mobility

96.0% success
6-12 weeks
1-3 hours
  • Recovery: 6-12 weeks
  • Duration: 1-3 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Spine Surgery

$10,000 - $16,000

Surgical treatment for spinal conditions

94.0% success
4-12 weeks
2-6 hours
  • Recovery: 4-12 weeks
  • Duration: 2-6 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Weight Loss Surgery

$10,000 - $16,000

Bariatric and weight management surgical procedures

92.0% success

Gastric Bypass

$12,490 - $13,057

Weight loss bypass surgery

91.0% success
2-4 weeks
2-4 hours
  • Recovery: 2-4 weeks
  • Duration: 2-4 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Gastric Sleeve

$11,000 - $14,874

Stomach reduction surgery

90.0% success
2-3 weeks
1-2 hours
  • Recovery: 2-3 weeks
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Sports Injury Repair

$7,000 - $13,000

Surgical repair of athletic injuries

93.0% success
4-12 weeks
1-3 hours
  • Recovery: 4-12 weeks
  • Duration: 1-3 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Heart & Vascular

$15,000 - $25,000

Heart and cardiovascular system treatments

94.0% success

Surgical Oncology

Surgical removal of cancerous tumors

2-8 weeks
1-6 hours
  • Recovery: 2-8 weeks
  • Duration: 1-6 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Our Medical Team

A

Alexandru Cristescu

Neurosurgeon

16 years experience

Neurosurgeon with 16 years of experience.

B

Banacu Mihail

Obstetrician-gynecologist

15 years experience

Obstetrician-gynecologist at Ponderas Academic Hospital.

B

Bogdan Smeu, Ph.D.

General Surgery

Ph.D.

Specializes in General Surgery, Bariatric Surgery, and Robotic Surgery.[6]

C

Catalin Copaescu

General surgeon

33 years experience

General surgeon with over 30 years of experience at Ponderas Academic Hospital.

C

Catalin Copaescu, Prof.

General Surgery

Prof.

Professor experienced in surgical procedures at Ponderas Academic Hospital.[6]

C

Catalin Trifan

Cardiovascular surgeon

11 years experience

Cardiovascular surgeon with 11 years of experience.

C

Claudiu Manea

ENT doctor

21 years experience

ENT doctor with 21 years of experience.

D

Dr. Bogdan Smeu

Orthopedic Surgery

SRC Master Surgeon in Orthopedic Surgery

ro, en

Master Surgeon specializing in orthopedic procedures with SRC accreditation.

D

Dr. Catalin Copaescu

Bariatric Surgeon

33 years experience

General surgeon with over 33 years of experience, leading bariatric surgery at Ponderas Academic Hospital.

D

Dr. Simona Filip

General Surgeon

Consultant General Surgeon, Surgeon of Excellence in Bariatric Surgery

Consultant General Surgeon and Surgeon of Excellence in Bariatric Surgery at Ponderas Academic Hospital.[2]

D

Dr. Victor Tomulescu

Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery

SRC Master Surgeon in Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery

ro, en

Master Surgeon specializing in metabolic and bariatric surgical procedures with international SRC recognition.

D

Dr. Vlad Predescu

Orthopedic Surgery

COEOS

Recognized for Center of Excellence in Orthopedic Surgery accreditation.

G

Gabriel Crasmariu

Interventional cardiologist

11 years experience

Interventional cardiologist at Ponderas Academic Hospital.

G

Gerald Filip

General surgeon, Breast surgeon

30 years experience

General and breast surgeon at Ponderas Academic Hospital.

I

Ionut Hutopila

General surgeon

21 years experience

General surgeon at Ponderas Academic Hospital.

P

Paul Stanciu

Gynecologist, Gynecologic oncologist

11 years experience

Gynecologist and gynecologic oncologist at Ponderas Academic Hospital.

P

Prof. Dr. Catalin Copaescu

Bariatric and Robotic Surgery

Surgeon of Excellence in Robotic Surgery

ro, en

Medical director of Ponderas Academic Hospital and coordinator of the Robotic Surgery department. Internationally recognized for expertise in minimally invasive and robotic surgical procedures.

S

Simona Filip

General surgeon

26 years experience

General surgeon at Ponderas Academic Hospital.

Customer Reviews

4.5

Based on 8 reviews

5
7
4
0
3
0
2
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1
1

"I've been recently twice in the Emergency Room of Ponderas in Floreasca, Bucharest and the second time I've been advised to remain hospitalized. Since, during my life I've unfortunately experienced hospitals in Germany, Turkey, USA and Romania too, I can say Ponderas is a top-notch hospital. The triage and investigations in the Emergency Room are fluid and fast, using best medical equipment and in house labs, but the best is the professional, kind and empathic personnel. I had the same positive experience during my hospitalization. I wish everyone to not need a doctor, but if, I can warmly recommend Ponderas."

Radu Zaciu
· July 12, 2026

"We had an exceptionally positive experience at Ponderas Academic Hospital one week ago. Our five-year-old daughter underwent a complex surgical procedure performed by an outstanding medical team, led by Dr. George Sălăvăstru and Dr. Denisa Cănuț. Both doctors provided prompt feedback following the surgery, clearly explaining all steps of the recovery process. Dr. Sălăvăstru demonstrated remarkable professionalism, extensive expertise, and exceptional care in working with young patients. In addition to the medical team’s high level of competence, the hospital offers excellent facilities, and the staff are highly trained, attentive, and genuinely patient-focused. We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone involved for the dedicated care provided to our daughter."

Oana Popa
· July 12, 2026

"I had a double coxarthrosis (hip replacement) surgery at Ponderas Academic Hospital about six months ago, performed by Dr. Predescu, followed by physiotherapy with Ciprian Nitu. The entire experience was excellent from start to finish. Dr. Predescu is an outstanding professional who explained everything clearly and gave me a lot of confidence before the surgery. The operation went very well, and the results have exceeded my expectations. Equally important was the recovery process. I worked with Ciprian Nitu for physiotherapy, and his guidance, patience, and professionalism made a huge difference in my rehabilitation. The recovery program was well structured and adapted to my progress. Six months later, my recovery is going great. I can now enjoy activities that I used to struggle with before the surgery, and my quality of life has improved significantly. I’m very grateful to the entire team at Ponderas Academic for their professionalism, care, and support."

Gabriel Tirlea
· July 12, 2026

"I had a very good experience at this hospital. The medical staff were knowledgeable, compassionate, and attentive from start to finish. The facilities were clean and well-organized, and I felt cared for every step of the way. Nurses and doctors took the time to explain everything clearly, and I never felt rushed. I’m truly grateful for the high standard of care I received—thank you to the entire team!"

Andreea Prajescu
· February 25, 2026

"A and E is down to the right of the main entrance. Be careful of the long drilled hole in the ground, if you aren't looking where you're going you could injure yourself. Quick, professional, calm and cheerful service by lovely staff. Hardly any wait to see a doctor when I attended about 8.30am, even though she had emergencies before and after. She said she ran from the emergency to check my wound. Option to have crutches, 100 lei per crutch. Wound care cost 100 lei and getting it checked by a doctor cost 460 lei. They may automatically book you for an X ray, so make sure you tell them if you don't want that. Also they may use antibiotic cream, it was itchy so I washed it off. Antibiotic cream can cause sensitivity and resistance. I said that my leg was itchy and the nurse said that's normal with a wound, but it wasn't for me. As soon as I washed the antibiotic cream off it was fine. The wound was not infected, so I didn't need it. They don't tell you what things are so you will need to ask if you want to know. Don't lock the toilet, I had to be relaased from outside! The visit was done in an hour. The doctors speak English, the nurses don't."

Lydia
· February 25, 2026

"I strongly suggest to this private hospital to revisit the schedule followed in the Emergency rooms for children. During a very well known flue epidemic season, having only 2 doctors for more than 40 patients during weekend it is clearly the easiest way to chaos and frustration among the patients. If we were willing to go with a 7+ waiting hours, we would have went to a public hospital. A private hospital should raise to the high expectations one can have when paying biggest tariffs in the city. I also see that only good reviews have replies from the hospital. I am wondering what happens to the not so good ones?"

Catalina Gal
· February 25, 2026

A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the Treatment Process

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02

Navigating Your Treatment Options with Confidence and Clarity

Explore various treatments tailored to your needs and preferences.

03

Post-Treatment Care: Ensuring a Smooth Recovery Process

Follow our guidelines for a successful recovery after your treatment.

Why Choose Bucharest, Romania?

Discover the perfect destination for your medical journey

Affordable dental cosmetics EU access. Modern clinics thermal spas. Cost savings 60-80%.

69

Destination Score

70%
Savings vs. US Prices
#35
global rank
20,000+
patients/year
$90
Daily Budget
52
Healthcare & Safety
70
Safety
76
Cost & Value
73
Travel & Getting There
76
Internet Speed
83
Climate
64
Climate & Environment

Healthcare & Safety

System Quality Good
Hospitals 25+
Emergency Services Good
Pharmacies Widely available
Safety Rating High
Insurance Private clinics accept international insurance; EU-aligned regulatory frameworks ensure coverage compatibility

Travel & Getting There

Airport Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)
Distance to City 17 km (~25 min)
English Level High
Public Transit Good
Taxis & Rideshare Widely available with rideshare options

EU: free; US/UK: Schengen visa

Cost & Value

Daily Budget $90
Hotel (mid-range) $80/night
Restaurant Meal $12
Daily Transport $10
Currency Romanian Leu (RON)
Tipping Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5-10% for good service is customary
Savings vs. US Prices
dental
60%
cosmetic surgery
70%
cardiac
65%
orthopedic
60%
fertility
55%

Climate & Environment

Average 11.6°C · Humid Subtropical

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Green bars = comfortable range (18-28°C)

Best Time to Visit May to September
Air Quality (AQI) 60
Water Quality Bottled recommended
Internet Speed 100 Mbps
Mobile Network Good 4G/LTE

Medical Tourism Hub

#35 global rank 20,000+ patients/year Very Good recovery environment
DentistryCosmetic and reconstructive surgeryOphthalmologyFertility treatments (IVF)Orthopedic surgeriesCardiologyMinimally invasive laparoscopic surgeriesWellness and spa tourism
Government-backed program
Patient rights protection

Clinic Location

While Your Companion Recovers

Historical architecture tours
Carpathian Mountains exploration
Black Sea coast visits
Opera and theater performances
Park visits (Herastrau Park)
Shopping districts
Spa and rehabilitation center stays

Practical Information

Languages Spoken

English
French
Italian
Romanian

Payment Methods

credit_cardbank_transfercash

Business Hours

Monday Open 24 hours
Tuesday Open 24 hours
Wednesday Open 24 hours
Thursday Open 24 hours
Friday Open 24 hours
Saturday Open 24 hours
Sunday Open 24 hours
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This clinic speaks: English, French, Italian, Romanian

Ponderas Academic Hospital typically responds within 24 hours. For urgent inquiries, please contact them directly.

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