Friends, Colleagues, and Those Whose Lives He Touched,

With heavy hearts, we remember the life and contributions of an exceptional individual, Prof. Dr. Pavle Košorok, MD, PhD, a dedicated Consultant Surgeon whose passion for healing touched countless lives. He passed away on August 3, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire all who knew him.

Born on June 29, 1944, Prof. Košorok’s journey in the medical field began at the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia, where he earned his medical degree in 1969. He went on to specialize in general surgery, earning his Masters degree in 1979 and achieving his PhD in 1992. Prof. Košorok’s thirst for knowledge led him to London’s St. Bartholomeus Hospital, Guy’s Hospital, and St. Mark’s Hospital, as well as Royal Infirmary in Leeds, under the guidance of Prof. Golligher. He expanded his horizons with experiences at the Cleveland Clinic and the Lahey Clinic in 1980, and at the Enterostomal Therapy School at the Cleveland Clinic in 1990.

Prof. Košorok’s impact extended beyond the operating room. He served as a Consultant Surgeon at UMC Ljubljana’s Department of Abdominal Surgery from 1976 to 1994, leaving an imprint of expertise and compassion on his patients. In 1994, he founded the Iatros Medical Centre, a hub of excellence in general surgery, proctology, enterostomal therapy, and incontinence care. As its Director and Clinical Lead, he created a nurturing environment centered around patients’ well-being.

His contributions extended beyond clinical practice. He was a respected Professor of Surgery at the Medical Faculty of the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia. His academic pursuits were mirrored in his extensive involvement in professional organizations. He held membership in esteemed bodies such as the Medical Chamber of Slovenia, the Slovenian Association for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the European Society for Coloproctology, Mediterranean Society for Coloproctology and the International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ISUCRS), to name a few.

His commitment to medical education and collaboration was evident in his roles as President of the Slovenian Society for Coloproctology, National Delegate of the European Society of Coloproctology, and past President of the Mediterranean Society for Coloproctology. Prof. Košorok’s leadership extended to organizing pivotal events, including the 17th Meeting of the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists Society in Ljubljana in 2008, showcasing his dedication to advancing medical knowledge on a global stage.

Prof. Dr. Pavle Košorok’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all whose lives he touched. His passion for healing, commitment to education, and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and patients as we remember and celebrate a life well-lived.

In Fond Remembrance,

Valentin Sojar, dr. med., MBA &
Executive Board, International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgeons