Spire Hartswood Hospital welcomes leading Ukrainian reconstructive surgeon to observe UK patient pathways

Spire Hartswood Hospital recently welcomed Professor Hnat Herych, Head of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service at the Unbroken National Rehabilitation Centre in Lviv, Ukraine, to observe elective cosmetic and reconstructive surgery pathways delivered at the hospital.

Professor Herych was invited by Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Mark Gittos as part of a professional exchange designed to share knowledge, techniques and patient care processes between international clinicians.

In November 2025, Professor Herych joined Mr Gittos in both theatre and outpatient settings to gain insight into the complete patient journey from initial consultation through to surgery and post-operative care. The visit forms part of a long-term collaboration aimed at enhancing reconstructive pathways for patients in Ukraine as services continue to expand. 

Mr Gittos, who completed specialist training across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, France and the UK, has been a Consultant Plastic Surgeon since 1996. Over his career, he has contributed to innovations in breast reconstruction and developed one of the early approaches to skin-sparing mastectomy. Since 2003, he has focused full-time on private practice across Essex and London, building a reputation through extensive patient recommendation.

Professor Herych’s visit follows Mr Gittos’s previous clinical trips to Lviv, where he has supported complex reconstructive procedures for individuals experiencing severe trauma-related injuries. He plans to continue returning throughout 2026 as part of the ongoing professional exchange programme, helping to strengthen global cooperation in reconstructive surgery.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to continuous learning, with surgeons working together across borders to develop best practice and bring advanced techniques back to their respective healthcare systems.

Richard Coggings, Hospital Director at Spire Hartswood Hospital, said:

“We are delighted to have welcomed Professor Herych to Spire Hartswood Hospital. Supporting clinicians to share learning, refine technique and build lasting professional partnerships benefits both our teams and the patients we care for locally and internationally.”

Professor Hnat Herych during his visit to Spire Hartswood Hospital