Prof. Assoc. Dr. Ilir Kajo

Gastro-Hepatologist

Doctor

Specialty: Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Subspecialty: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Digestive Endoscopy

Languages: English, German, French


Meet Dr. Ilir Kajo

Dr. Ilir Kajo is a highly respected gastroenterologist and hepatologist with over 35 years of experience. He has dedicated his career to improving the health and lives of his patients while advancing the field of digestive medicine in Albania and beyond.

Dr. Kajo began his medical journey at the University of Tirana’s Faculty of Medicine, graduating in 1980. His interest in gastroenterology led him to specialize in Gastro-Hepatology at the same institution, followed by advanced training abroad:

  • At the Beaujon Hospital in Paris (1983), he specialized in diagnostic digestive endoscopy, becoming the first in Albania to perform procedures like gastroscopy and colonoscopy.
  • Later, he trained at the Military Hospital in Ulm, Germany (1994), focusing on therapeutic digestive endoscopy.

His expertise and dedication have made him a leader in his field. For over 22 years, he served as the Head of Gastro-Hepatology at the University Trauma Hospital in Tirana. Since 1999, he has also led the Gastro-Hepatology Department at Klinika Kajo, where he continues to provide exceptional care to his patients.


Clinical Expertise

Dr. Kajo specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of digestive and liver conditions, including:

  • Stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastritis
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Stomach, esophageal, and colorectal cancer
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
  • Anal conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures, and fistulas
  • Malabsorption disorders
  • Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
  • Liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, and pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder stones and infections

Key Procedures:

  • Gastroscopy
  • Colonoscopy

Professional Journey

Dr. Kajo’s career has been marked by leadership and a passion for teaching:

  • Leadership Roles:
    • Directed the Military Health Services and the Military Hospital in Tirana (1992-1993).
    • Headed the Gastroenterology Pavilion at the Central Military Hospital (1990-1996).
    • Directed the Gastroenterology Service at the University Trauma Hospital (2005–present).
  • Teaching:
    • For over 30 years, Dr. Kajo shared his knowledge as an external lecturer at the University of Tirana’s Faculty of Medicine.
  • Medical Practice:
    • Served as a gastroenterologist and endoscopist in various leading institutions, including the Central Military Hospital and Klinika Kajo.

Memberships

Dr. Kajo is an active member of several prestigious organizations, demonstrating his commitment to staying at the forefront of his field:

  • American Gastroenterological Association (AGA)
  • European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE)
  • Albanian Society of Gastroenterology-Hepatology
  • Albanian Society of Trauma

Publications

Dr. Kajo has contributed extensively to the medical community through research and publications, including:

  • "Stomach Ulcers," a monograph published in 1995.
  • Co-authorship of university textbooks such as "Gastroenterology" and "Pathophysiological Physiology."
  • Contributions to "Diseases of the Gastrointestinal Tract," a key resource for medical students.

A Legacy of Care

With over 80,000 endoscopic procedures performed, Dr. Kajo’s dedication to excellence is evident in every aspect of his work. He has spent decades diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients through complex digestive and liver conditions, providing compassionate care and exceptional expertise.

At Klinika Kajo, Dr. Ilir Kajo continues to set the standard for gastroenterological care, blending cutting-edge techniques with a personal, patient-centered approach. His passion for medicine and commitment to his patients make him a trusted name in his field.