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Nominations for UIP Executive Committee positions open on the 8th April, 2025. Nominations close 23:59 (UTC) 19th June, 2025.
The election for all positions will be held during the UIP General Council Meetings to be held during the World Congress of the International Union of Phlebology from 8-11 October, 2025 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
*Nominations marked with an asterix (*) have been made by a member society, but the nominee has not accepted yet.
The UIP has received the following nominations (listed by position, then alphabetically):
President Elect
Ahmet Kürsat Bozkurt
Zaza Lazarashvili
General Secretary
Oscar Bottini
Alvaro Orrego
Treasurer
Rodrigo Rial
Chair of Science Committee
Kurosh Parsi
*One pending nomniation from the American Venous Forum
Chair of Education Committee
Jinsong Wang
*One pending nomination from the American Venous Forum
Chair of Congress and Events
No nominations
Vice-Presidents
Chantal Aguero Wagner
Willy Chi
Ayman Mohamed Fakhry
Athanasios D. Giannoukas
Ernesto Intriago
Matthieu Josnin
Shoaib Padaria
Wassila Taha
* One pending nomination from the Japanese Society of Phlebology
Ahmet Kürsat Bozkurt
Nominated by the Turkish Society of Phlebology
Professor of Cardiovascular Surgery
Istanbul University – Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery
Founder, Dr. Kürsat Bozkurt Varicose Veins and Vascular Diseases Clinic
He was born in Izmir in 1962. He graduated from Ege University Faculty of Medicine in 1985. He completed his residency at Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery in 1993. He became Associate Professor in 1997 and Professor in 2003 in the same department. During his residency, he worked in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Royal Hospital Edinburgh, Scotland for five months. Between 1994-1995, he worked as a specialist in the Cardiovascular Surgery Department of Castle Hill Hospital in England for 2 years.
He was accepted as a "Fellow of International College of Angiology (FICA)" in 1993. He passed the necessary exams and received the title of "Fellow European Board of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons (FEBCS)" in 2003.
He has several books, book chapters, articles in international scientific journals and over 1500 citations. He has been the editor of the National Guideline for Peripheral Artery and Vein Diseases since 2008. He served as the President of the National Vascular Surgery Association between 2008-2012, the President of the Asian Vascular Surgery Association between 2012-2013, and the President of the Turkish Society of Cardiovascular Surgery between 2020-2022. He was the President of Union International Phlebology 2022 World Congress. He currently serves as the President-elect of the European College of Phlebology and the General Secretary of Union International Phlebology.
Rationale
1. To develop the care of venous patients in the world
2. To develop intersociety relations in vein and lymphatic community
3. To increase the funds of UIP
4. Organize several guidelines for venous and lymphatic care
5. Organize missions to treat venous patients in the underdeveloped regions
Zaza Lazarashvili
Nomination from Georgian Association of Angiologists and Vascular Surgeons
Prof. Zaza Lazarashvili is a vascular surgeon, serving as head and founder of the Chapidze Cardiovascular Hospital in Tbilisi, Georgia, as well as professor of vascular surgery at the Tbilisi State University. Since 2002 he had PhD degree.
In Georgia he introduced mini-invasive vein surgery, endo-venous procedures and innovative pelvic venous disorder management and he has served as member of the National Council for Accreditation of Educational Programs.
Along the years Prof. Lazarashvili actively participates in international educational and scientific activities, having been member of the international committee of the American Vein and Lymphatic Society (AVLS), serving as international ambassador of American Venous forum (AVF) and member of the International Pelvic Vein Working Group (IPVWG).
Under his leadership, important regional projects have been implemented: Black Sea Venous meeting, Near East – North Africa (NENA) Venous Society, together with a dedicated global project on Pelvic Venous Disorders in conjunction with the European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. His last initiative, which is actively developing, is European Pelvic Vein Alliance (EPVA). He is the author of the Consensus Document of the International Union of Phlebology “Diagnosis and Treatment of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome.” Zaza Lazarashvili has published more than 30 scientific papers and 1 monography, he is member of the editorial board of the Turkish Journal of Vascular Surgery and associated Editor of “Acta Phlebologica”. He is the past president of Georgian Association of Angiologists and Vascular Surgeons and the convener of the International Union of Phlebology 2027 World Congress. From 2018 to 2022 he has served as member of the Education Committee of the International Union of Phlebology.
Since 2022 he has been elected as vice-president of the International Union of Phlebology.
During my work as Vice-President of the UIP and as a previous member of the UIP Educational Committee, I have had the chance to witness the UIP beyond meaningful features that are in need to be protected, as well as the unmet needs that need to be fulfilled. Along these years I have dedicated myself to travel to all continents to visit the member’s meetings and local clinical practices in order also to understand how we can collaborate at best. Apart the election time common words, I strongly believe in the translation into action, for which ADVOCACY is of paramount importance toward the Colleagues, the Scientific Societies and the patient. In this context, I’ve always focused in engaging diplomatic relationships with the different Governmental parts, so that the good intentions can turn into good Actions.
That’s why this is the line I choose for my candidacy:
“Good intentions, Good actions”.
The concept applies to many different aspects of our everyday professional life: the good Teamwork, the good Clinical Practice, the Good Moral Engagement, the Good interaction with the Governance leading to an appropriate advancement of vein-lymphatic care.
While focusing on the Macro global aspects, we should also never forget about the Local Realities that should be protected and enhanced in their relationship with the UIP. This is another aspect I include in my top three commitments: REGIONAL and RURAL REPRESENTATION is mandatory to make sure UIP stays as the reference point in the Phlebology and Lymphology world.
In this constant both ways shift between local and global realities, the third top priority I see is the EQUALITY principle protection for which everybody must receive the same attention and care. With this principle we are designing the UIP 2027 World Congress in Georgia and with the same will I look forward for listening to ALL Colleagues and Societies who will like to reach out to me for a brainstorming on how we can be of best service TOGETHER.
Oscar Bottini
Nominated by the Uruguayan Society of Phebology and Lymphology, Latin American Venous Forum and the Phlebology and Lymphology Association of the Province of Buenos Aires.
I am Oscar Bottini, General, Plastic and Peripheral Vascular Surgeon.
I started my career in Medicine graduating as a Physician at the age of 23 from the University of Buenos Aires and developing my surgical residency at the Department of Surgery of the University Hospital of Buenos Aires from 1984 to 1988.
I worked as a surgeon at the Hospital San Andrés de Giles, Province of Buenos Aires, where I performed the first lower limb by-pass in that city.
I completed the specialty of Plastic Surgery between 1992 and 1995.
I developed my activity in Phlebology and Lymphology being a member of the first cohort of graduates of the Career of Specialists in Venous and Lymphatic Surgery at the Catholic University of Argentina, with the title of Specialist in 1992.
I started as a member of the prestigious Argentine College of Venous and Lymphatic Surgery, becoming President in 2012.
In 2014 I became President of the Latin American Venous Forum.
In the educational field, I created the Phlebology and Lymphology Career at the University of Buenos Aires, which today has 3 branches, which I coordinate, and I have been developing university courses and diploma courses for more than 20 years.
To promote the creation and activities of national societies or associations and to encourage them to join the UNION INTERNATIONALE DE PHLEBOLOGIE”, is one of the objectives expressed in its constitution. I would like to work on this constitution so that there are no multiple interpretations that damage the spirit for which they were created, for which we must clearly express paragraphs that provoke:
It is my wish to see these objectives realized in countries with difficulties to achieve them, compensating existing scientific and educational imbalances in the world.
Also, to allow a non-binding consultation in countries that have UIP member societies about the incorporation of new societies, in order to keep the different regions free of conflicts.
This will be possible only through the coordinated work of the entire Executive Committee. And I will work for a harmonious development of the activity of the EXECOM.
Having had direct experience of the functioning of the UIP Executive Committee, I would like to offer my best effort to serve as Secretary General, promoting the most productive exchange among the Executive Committee members themselves, maximizing my commitment to the General Council.
Alvaro Orrego
Nominated by the Chilean Phlebology and Lymphology Foundation
Dear colleagues,
My name is Alvaro Orrego, a Vascular Surgeon based in Viña del Mar, Chile. I am married and a father of three. My professional focus is phlebolymphology, where I have been a pioneer in Latin America—introducing endovenous laser and radiofrequency for the treatment of chronic venous disease. I have actively promoted best practices and consistently updated the management of varicose veins, telangiectasias, incompetent perforator veins, multilayer compression bandaging, pelvic venous disease, and thromboembolic disorders, among others—always advocating for our specialty’s leadership in these treatments. I have also developed a method to assess dermal and subdermal reticular veins using duplex ultrasound.
I am deeply committed to medical education and the dissemination of knowledge. I have served as President of the Latin American Venous Forum, the International Committee of the American Venous Forum, the Vascular Surgery Division of the Chilean Society of Surgeons, the Chilean Society of Phlebology and Lymphology, and the Chilean Phlebology and Lymphology Foundation. I actively contribute to scientific, continuing education, and guideline development committees. I serve on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Vascular Surgery–Venous and Lymphatic Disorders, where I was honored as Reviewer of the Year in 2023. I also review for Phlebology and Acta Phlebologica.
I strongly believe that scientific progress must translate into real benefits for our patients. They are the ultimate goal of all our efforts. This conviction drives my daily work—and it is what inspires me to apply for the position of Secretary General of this distinguished society.
I would like to apply for the position of General Secretary on the Executive Committee of the UIP, with a strong commitment to contributing to the proper administration of the institution. I am eager to take on a key role in coordination, communication, and administrative operations, which are essential to strengthening our society.
If elected, I will fully carry out all duties of the General Secretary with dedication, responsibility, and commitment. In addition, I have many ideas that could further enhance the important work the UIP is doing, and I would be pleased to share and develop them with the Executive Committee, in a spirit of openness, respect, and collaboration.
According to UIP bylaws (Article 109), the role of the General Secretary includes important responsibilities such as:
I submit this candidacy with a deep sense of responsibility and a spirit of service, with the aim of contributing to institutional development and ensuring the continuity of transparent, efficient, and well-coordinated organizational work.
Rodrigo Rial
Nominated by the Spanish Chapter of Phlebology and Lymphology
My involvement in Phlebology stems from my background in Vascular Surgery. In Spain, Phlebology is included within the five-year postgraduate training program for the Specialty of Angiology and Vascular Surgery. Since 2005, I have held various roles within the Executive Board of the Spanish Chapter of Phlebology and Lymphology, serving as Board Member, Secretary, Member of the Scientific Committee, Vice President, and ultimately, President during the 2019–2023 term.
I joined the Executive Board of the UIP as Vice President (West and South Europe) at the Istanbul Congress in 2022, and over the past year, I have been acting as Treasurer following the resignation of Dr. Paul Thibault, to whom I would like to pay tribute here.
I am currently also a member of the Scientific Committee of the Pan-American Society of Phlebology and Lymphology.
I have held other leadership roles in the Executive Committee in the Spanish Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, as well as in the Society of Endovascular Surgery,
My daily clinical practice takes place in two hospitals, where I treat both arterial and venous patients. I serve as Clinical Head of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at MD Vascular Care Clinics, University Hospitals HM Madrid & HM Torrelodones. I am also a Senior Statutory Staff Member in Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, holding the Highest Level of Skills, at University Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain (1996–2020). I have been on voluntary leave of absence since 2020.
The Treasury of a Scientific Society plays a crucial role in shaping its future actions and scientific initiatives. My proposal is to strengthen the financial health of the UIP through a transparent partnership with industry, while also ensuring that member societies consistently fulfill their obligations.
It is essential that the membership fees paid by each society are reinvested in ways that benefit their members—whether through scholarships or support for local congresses.
Transparency and sound financial management within the Treasury are fundamental to maintaining the prestige of this global Society, which I would be honored to serve in this capacity.
Professor Kurosh Parsi, MBBS, MSc (Med), PhD, LLM, FACD, FACP, FACLM is a dermatologist, phlebologist and vascular anomalies specialist. Prof. Parsi is the Head of Department of Dermatology, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, Australia and Program Head, Dermatology, Phlebology and Fluid Mechanics Research Laboratory, St. Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research. Professor Parsi sub-specializes in vascular anomalies and vascular dermatology.
Prof Parsi is a fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists, Australasian College of Phlebeology and Australasian College of Legal Medicine.
Prof. Parsi is a conjoint Professor of Medicine at University of New South Wales (UNSW) and served as an Adjunct Professor of Fluid Mechanics at the University of Sydney, School of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering. He is a medical graduate of the University of Sydney, obtained his Master of Science in Medicine followed by a PhD in thrombosis, haemostasis and fibrinolysis from the UNSW and a Master of International Law (LLM) from the University of Salford (Manchester, UK). Dr Parsi is currently completing a juris doctor (JD) degree with the University of Canberra.
Prof. Parsi served as President of the International Union of Phlebology (UIP) (2019-2023) and prior to that served as Vice President (2009-2013), Treasurer (2013-2017) and President-elect (2018-2019).
Professor Parsi served the Australasian College of Phlebology (ACP) as President (2007-2017) and was the convener of the ACP annual Scientific Meetings (2007-2017) and the World Congress of Phlebology (Melbourne, Australia; 4-8 February 2018).
I am seeking the position of Chair of Science of the International Union of Phlebology (UIP) to strengthen the organisation’s scientific leadership and continue advancing its global impact in venous and lymphatic disease. Building on the UIP achievements during my presidency, I intend to focus on the following priorities:
Through these objectives, I aim to ensure that the UIP remains a dynamic and authoritative source of evidence-based guidance and international scientific collaboration.
Pending acceptance
Pending nomination from American Venous Forum
Jinsong Wang
Nominated by the Chinese Association of Phlebology
Prof. Jinsong Wang is a professor of vascular surgery at the Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (CHINA). She accomplished her training at the HeNan University of Medical Sciences in China and in the United States at the University of California San Francisco and at the MedStar Research Institute of the Washington Hospital Center. She is currently serving as Director of the Department of Medical Education and Chair of the Department of Vascular Surgery at the Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital in Guangzhou, China.
She is the President of the branch of Vascular Surgery in the Guangdong Medial Doctor Association She is the Deputy Secretary-general of the Chinese Association for Phlebology. She published more than one hundred papers on Phlebology and Lymphology and presented the related topics all around the world. Prof. Wang is strongly dedicated to medical education: she led the medical student team to win the national medical student Clinical Skill Competition Championship from 2010 to 2014 in China. She has chaired the resident training program for 7 years. From 2023 to 2024 she has been serving as Deputy Chair of the UIP education committee, becoming acting chair in 2025.
During this term she developed an educational online library addressing all areas of Phlebology & Lymphology, targeting both healthcare professionals and public.
In my vision Education is a permanent action that must be mandatory in the core activity of the scientific societies, in particular if top institutional and global such as the UIP. Having experienced as a student both the American and Asian educational system, I have always tried to combine the positive features both these approaches bring. With great attention I’ve also witnessed the European and Asian methods during dedicated professional trips in these regions. Inside the UIP, I’ve been honored to serve as deputy and then acting Educational Committee chair, completing the excellent job started by Pauline Raymond-Martimbeau, while enhancing it by a focus on public education. It’s my deep hope the General Council will like to support my commitment to proceed in the creation of a wide multi-lingual UIP educational library, empowered by contributions from all around the world. Educating each other is a concept I strongly believe in, particularly in a discipline like Phlebology and Lymphology in which the Experience-based and the Evidence-based must get together for the best vein-lymphatic patient care. In case you’d like to reach out for further discussion on my and your vision, please do not hesitate to write me at wjpine@hotmail.com.Pending acceptance
Pending nomination from American Venous Forum
No nominations
Chantal Agüero Wagner
Nominated by the Paraguayan Society of Phlebology and Lymphology
Dr. Chantal Agüero is the current president of the Panamerican Society of Phlebology and Lymphology, an internacional scientific society gathering 24 latin-america societies from 18 countries together. She is also the immediate past-president of the Paraguayan Association of Phlebology. Dr. Aguero is a second generation surgeon entirely dedicated to Phlebology and Lymphology, following the steps of his father, Latin America Phlebology Pioneer. Her training included experiences in Argentina, Europe and United States, always with a main focus in vein-lymphatic care. Dr. Aguero developed a dedicated project on human rights to appropriate treatment in pelvic venous disorders in the context of the W20-G20 initiative engaging colleagues from all continents. In the International Union of Phlebology (UIP) she has served as chair of the Awareness Working Group and in the Educational Committee from 2023, delivering several initiatives both at the regional and global level on the related topics.
My vision of Phlebology and Lymphology advancement includes collaboration among population, scientific societies and institutions, both at the national and international level, to fulfill the real needs of both the patient-care and the discipline scientific and educational advancement. While I’ve always been reluctant to mention the name of my father in order to avoid using it as an advantage in the professional field, in this context I feel it’s important to highlight my direct experience, thanks to him, in the development of Phlebology in Latin America for the last 40 years and in its interactions with the world. Indeed, I’ve witnessed the significant obstacles and the possible solutions for the most productive teamwork among the different parts involved This experience was tested also during my previous presidentship of the Paraguayan Association of Phlebology and now of the Panamerican Society of Phlebology and Lymphology. In the current globalized world, empowered but also threatened by the fast digital communication, I feel the interaction among reliable and institutional entities of the different countries is of paramount importance for guaranteeing vein and lymphatic care is practiced at best by the best trained professionals. In this sense I’ve been working in the phlebology and lymphology awareness campaigns, always engaging all parts involved, counteracting misinformation and not properly trained professional’s practice. Along this professional and personal path of connections, synergy and friendship development, I’ve always watched at the UIP as THE hub where all entities dedicated to vein-lymphatic care can get stronger together, if united by a pro-active spirit. Serving this mission as vice-president, opening the doors of Latin America to the world and willing to reach out to the other continents for the most productive teamwork would be my deepest honor and duty. Im available for any details or suggestion for the best advancement in our field.
Willy Chi
Nominated by the Chinese Association of Phlebology and the Mexican College of Phlebology
Yung Wei (Willy) Chi is a Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of California, Davis since 2017. Previously he held the Associate Professor position from 2010-2017. After obtaining his undergraduate degree from the University of California and medical degree from the Kanasis City University in Missouri, he finished both residency and fellowship training at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio. Prior to moving to U.C. Davis, he was the Director of Vascular Services at the Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans, CA. He is widely published in the field of arterial, venous and lymphatic medicine with over 60 peer reviewed publications, 1400 citations and lectures globally. He holds a H-Index of 18. He sits on the editorial board of Phlebology, Vascular Medicine, Veins and Lymphatic, Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, Chinese Medical Journal, and is the Chinese language editor for International Angiology, the Associate Editor for Vascular Investigation and Therapy, and the Associate Editor for Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Research. Professionally, he held various positions in the American Vein and Lymphatic Society as a foundation and society board member from 2014 to 2020. He has served the venous-lymphatic World International Network foundation (vWIN) since 2016, developing numerous scientific, educational, humanitarian and awareness projects. As the International Committee Chair for the Chinese Association of Phlebology, he has worked tirelessly connecting the East with West.
In my vision, the International Union of Phlebology (UIP) represents the vein-lymphatic world hub where all the continents can connect and grow stronger together. This is one great chance of learning from each-other on how to advocate at best for both patients and colleagues. The role of vice-president I envision is first of all the one facilitating the interaction and synergy among the representatives of the different regions.
As the International Committee Chair for the Chinese Association of Phlebology, and being a board member of the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, I had the chance to experience directly the importance of bridging cultures for the best global advancement. While on one side a specific diplomacy is needed, on the other side the personal connection plays a fundamental role to facilitate the execution of the projects.
In this sense I’d like to promote a strong interaction among the six vice-presidents, with at least a dedicated meeting every 3 months, to foster connection and collaboration.
Another topic I like to address is the heterogeneity of the vein-lymphatic management, particularly in the rural areas. Reaching to the regions that are still missing a proper representation of good clinical practice in phlebology and lymphology is another priority of mine.
Additionally, I would like to add the advocacy of the UIP inside the vascular and satellite discipline. As a Professor of Medicine at the University of California, Davis, in the last 8 years I have strived to maximize the collaboration among the different specialties involved in leg care in my institution. Having seen the result of such synergy in the everyday clinical practice, I’d be honored in connecting the different specialties of the different regions, for the most appropriate holistic approach to vein-lymphatic care.
I’ll remain available in case you’d like to reach out to me at my email (willychi@me.com), deeply wishing we can advance in the UIP mission together.
Ayman Mohamed Fakhry
Nominated by the Egyptian Venous Forum and the Vascular Society of Egypt
Professor of vascular surgery department of Egyptian military academy and Co of Royal vascular center – Alexandria, Egypt.
In 1984 I was graduated at the School of medicine of Alexandria University – Egypt. Being interested in group working and serving the community leaded me to the Scout’s life and I was chosen “The best Scout of Alexandria University in 1981.I had a strong family sport life as I was Fencer and joined the National Egyptian Olympic Fencing team in 1984 with whom I attended the Olympic Competition of the year 1984 in LA. My Surgical training started in Alexandria School of medicine 1988-1990 to get the master’s degree of general surgery. In 1991 I got a scholarship to Fitzsimons army medical center and Colorado University-USA, with Dr. Hammond and supervised by Professor Robert Rutherford himself. In 2001 I became lecturer of vascular surgery and got a PHD Degree in Vascular Surgery. In 2005 I Joined Emory University, Atlanta GA.-USA. With Professor Elliot Chicof and Professor Atef Salam. 2007-2016 I returned back to Egypt as professor and chairman of vascular surgery department of military academy. In 2016 I became Consultant of vascular surgery for Egyptian ministry of health from 2016 till now. In 2018 I was nominated as a consultant of lymphology and vascular surgery for the Egyptian Ministry of Sports. In 2020 I got a grant to join education training “Training of trainers“program and became a Harvard University alumni. In 2016-2024 I was elected as general secretary of Vascular Society of Egypt and was chosen as Editor in chief of Egyptian Journal of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery (2020-2024). I’m the President and founder of the Egyptian venous forum, and editor in chief of Egyptian Journal of Phlebology & lymphology. I published more than 40 articles in vascular surgery international journals, wrote four book chapter, and published my first book “vascular disorders in children in May 2025. I presented and published the 1st laser ablation o
VISION: “Africa IN the World & FOR the World”
Having been trained both in USA and in Egypt and having practiced both in large academic centers and in rural areas, I strongly envision the need of combining academic and top clinical expertise, together with practical sustainable healthcare actions in favor of appropriate vein-lymphatic management. This is possible only through a not easy dialogue engaging the related stakeholders from different geographical, cultural and scientific backgrounds. The UIP functions as a perfect catalyzer for this mission and that’s why I chose to accept the nomination of both the Egyptian Venous Forum and the Vascular Society of Egypt in the role of vice-president. In my vision, this role main task is to represent the continent IN the world, but also FOR the world. In fact, all Africa, and not just Egypt, should position itself “IN” the General Council to enjoy the great benefit that the UIP teamwork can bring. At the same time, Africa can be a great asset “FOR” all the UIP World community, bringing great clinical and academic expertise on the ground, moreover with a significant heterogeneity of settings related to the different socio-economic and environmental factors characterizing the continent. I’ve always greatly enjoyed developing intercontinental projects engaging new generations with top experts, from the region and the whole world. With great pleasure I committed to visit many international congresses worldwide, understanding the differences that make all of us stronger whenever similarly united together for a common goal. In this case, my hope is that you’ll like to cowork with me to bring Africa IN the vein-lymphatic world and FOR the global phlebo-lymphology better care. I also hope that for whatever further info on my professional and personal views you’ll feel absolutely free to write me (ayman_vasc@live.com) so to brainstorming together on how to collaborate at best.
Athanasios D. Giannoukas
Nominated by the Hellenic Phlebological Society
Giannoukas Athanasios, MSc, MD, PhD, FEBVS is a Professor of Vascular Surgery at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Greece. He is the Founder & has been the Chairman of the Department of Vascular Surgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece (06/2006 until April 2025). He has also served as the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly in Larissa, Greece (2018-2020, 2020-2022). He is a founding member and the Chairman of the Institute of Vascular Diseases - IVD (2010-today), an institute dedicated to the advancement of vascular medicine.
Prof. Giannoukas has organized more than 80 international congresses and courses. He is the Chairman of the Advisory Committee for the organizing of the annual LIVE Symposium (Leading Innovative Vascular Education) from 2010 until today. He is a member of the Chronic Venous Disease Guidelines Committee of the European Society of Vascular Surgery, a member of the Editorial Board of International Angiology (2012-today) and a member of the Editorial Board of the Journal of Endovascular Therapy (2012-today). He has served as the Secretary General of the European Venous Forum (2000-2017), a member of the European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Editorial Board (2005-2010), as a Councilor of the European Society of Vascular Surgery (2014-1016), a Vice President of the Balkan Venous Forum (2010-2016), a President of the Balkan Venous Forum (2016-2019) and a President of the European Venous Forum (2017-2018).
He has over 300 publications in scientific journals and has written and edited 6 books and 37 book chapters. He is a reviewer in 20 international scientific journals and has received 27 prizes, awards and scholarships. He has more than 360 invited lectures in international and national congresses and has been the principal investigator in 14 Clinical Protocols and Research Programmes. He is a visiting professor in 5 foreign universities.
I am eager to join the UIP Executive Committee as I am deeply committed to advancing the global field of venous and lymphatic diseases management. Along these lines, I believe that the UIP plays a central role in fostering international collaboration, research, and education in phlebology, and I consider my clinical, academic, and organizational experience as meaningful contribution to its mission. Having been actively involved in several national, European and international phlebology initiatives, I am passionate about building bridges between emerging and established experts, strengthening research networks, and promoting evidence-based practices across diverse healthcare systems.
My Vision as Vice President:
As Vice President, my vision is to enhance the UIP’s global impact by focusing on three core areas:
1. Inclusivity and Global Representation: I would like to work in order to amplify voices from underrepresented regions and encourage equitable participation in UIP activities, ensuring that the union reflects the diversity of the international phlebology community.
2. Education and Innovation: I will work endlessly to support the continuous learning of physicians at all levels and encourage the integration of new technologies and evidence-based approaches.
3. Collaboration and Advocacy: I envision the UIP as an important advocate for venous and lymphatic disease awareness, working in partnership with public health organizations to raise the profile of our field and promote early detection and effective treatment worldwide.
I see this role not just as an honor, but as a responsibility to serve, lead, and help shape the future of phlebology in a way that benefits patients, practitioners, and scientific progress.
Ernesto Intriago
Nominated by the Ecuadorian Society of Phlebolymphology and Microcirculation
Dr. Ernesto Intriago is a specialist in Phlebology and Lymphology, trained at the Universidad John F. Kennedy (Argentina), with additional specialization in Vascular Ultrasound at Colegio Médico de Morón (Buenos Aires) and other relevant courses in different countries during his career. He is the founder and current medical director of Fleboclinic in Guayaquil, Ecuador, a medical clinic entirely devoted to venous and lymphatic diseases.
He founded the Ecuadorian Society of Phlebolymphology and Microcirculation (SEFMi), an organization he has led for 19 years in close collaboration with successive presidents, significantly advancing phlebology and lymphology in Ecuador.
Dr. Intriago has served three terms as president of SOPFYL—the Pan-American Society of Phlebology and Lymphology (2010–2012, 2020–2022, re-elected 2022–2024). During his presidency amidst the global COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Intriago revitalized a nearly inactive society, restructured its organization, reformed its bylaws, executed a comprehensive corporate rebranding, launched the “PREFERIR” online educational program, and significantly enhanced international cooperation. Today, SOPFYL encompasses more than 23 active member societies and maintains a robust, globally recognized educational agenda.
His career strongly emphasizes humanitarian outreach. In 2016, after Ecuador’s devastating earthquake, Dr. Intriago mobilized SEFMi members to provide free medical care to affected communities, reinforcing his belief that medicine must blend science with social responsibility.
Furthermore, through Fleboclinic, Dr. Intriago annually organizes humanitarian medical campaigns providing free advanced phlebological care to underserved populations.
My vision for the UIP is clear and resolute: I want Latin America to align to the constitutional objectives of the UIP, to access continuous medical education funding, advanced technological resources, and meaningful international representation. I envision the UIP serving every corner of Latin America with equity and commitment, understanding there can be no genuinely global phlebology if our regional voices remain unheard due to linguistic, social, or geographic barriers.
This candidacy is about bringing my previous regional and intercontinental synergy experience into the UIP, serving the core constitutional aim of promoting productive networking among societies. Rather than election campaign promises, I hope my past actions clearly demonstrate my genuine commitment to serving our professional community.
If elected Vice President for Latin America, my primary commitment will be empowering regional voices equally and fostering meaningful, productive global collaborations. I remain open to dialogue, dedicated to strengthening inter-societal bonds—as a physician, Latin American, and proud member of the global phlebology community.
Matthieu Josnin
Nominated by the French Society of Phlebology
Dr Matthieu Josnin is a specialist in vascular medicine. He is founder and head of a centre for interventional phlebology (including minimally invasive venous procedures such as laser, radiofrequency, non-thermal non-tumescent techniques such as glue and sclerotherapy) and a centre for leg ulcers. The clinic is also a university-approved training centre for interns and post-graduate training. He also teaches foreign students, mainly from Europe and North Africa, and is a native speaker of English and Spanish.The clinic has a vascular surgery department and works in close collaboration with the Nantes University Hospital, particularly with the interventional radiology department.
Dr Matthieu Josnin is the imediate past president of the French Society of Phlebology, an associate member of the National Academy of Surgery and Innovative Operating Practices, and an associate member of the College of Teachers of Vascular Medicine. He is currently also a member of the French vascular medicine union and Lymphology Society.
Dr Matthieu Josnin has conducted and is conducting various clinical trials (interventional phlebology, anticoagulation, leg ulcer care). He has authored or co-authored articles and books, and has participated in numerous national and international conferences. He remains very active in teaching, particularly with the University Degree in Phlebology and endovenous techniques of Paris Sorbonne University. He is also actively involved in continuing medical and nursing education.
Having started my involvement with the French Society of Phlebology at the end of my studies, I quickly understood the importance of its role in my training as a vascular physician. Phlebology is not a speciality in its own right and follows very different training paths from one country to another. In France, the specialisation of Vascular Medicine is recent and includes Phlebology, which has allowed it to be recognised even if things are still taking time to fall into place. I have been able to see this evolve and have been able to participate in this evolution through my involvement in the various learning societies and the University and to contribute my experience and my point of view.
For me, the UIP is the main body for communication between the various learning societies in order to standardise this training as much as possible, but also to allow better communication between the various health actors who wish to be able to welcome and train students and practising doctors in their centres. I would like to offer you my experience and my full collaboration through this position of vice president.
Shoaib F Padaria
Nominated by the Venous Association of India
Dr Shoaib Padaria is an Interventional Cardiologist and Phlebologist from Mumbai, India. Since introducting Laser ablation for Varicose veins in India in 2003, Dr Padaria has been extremely active in spreading awareness of venous diseases all over India and the surrounding countries. He is a founder member of the Venous Association of India, and its Past President. He has conducted several large International Venous meetings in India and has led many Indian delegations to International Congresses in the last 2 decades. A well known speaker on venous topics, Dr Padaria has participated as Faculty in several major international meetings on all continents. Dr Padaria has also contributed to many papers and chapters in academic textbooks and is also a contributor to the UIP curriculum. Dr Padaria is the Head of the Department of Vascular Sciences at the renowned Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, since 1991 and has trained numerous fellows in Vascular Diseases since last 3 decades.
The primary purpose of my joining the Executive Board of the UIP is to create awareness of Venous Diseases in the Indian sub continent, using the members and resources of the UIP. While India is a very large country, with massive amount of venous work, we need assistance from a large organisation and its very respected and experienced members to help us in organising and imparting correct venous treatment to our diverse population. Furthermore, with my personal relationships with leaders in venous care in more than 30 countries in Asia developed over the last 2 decades, I believe I will be able to forge a strong association of individuals who will work in concert to impart quality venous care all over Asia. Lastly, it is my endeavour to actively participate in all programs organised by the UIP, irrespective of wherever in the world, and to contribute my skill and knowledge to this highly respected peer group of members.
Wassila Taha
Nominated by the Egypt Afrian Venous Lymphatic Association
Dr Wassila TAHA; Medical Doctor; MSc; RPVI ( USA)
She is General Secretary of EAVLA “Egypt Africa Venous Lymphatic Association“ since 2019 till current. A graduate of Cairo University, Egypt's oldest and most prestigious medical institution.
She received her clinical training in Liège - Belgium at CHU du Sartilman for Vascular Ultrasound early in her career in 1994 - 1995; which laid the foundation for her distinguished career. Becoming a leading figure in vascular diagnostics in Egypt, renowned for her accuracy in complex vascular cases throughout the region. Her pivotal role was to set up a high standard of quality for the vascular ultrasound nation-wide in Egypt. And In 2009; she has been ARDMS certified in United States of America (American Registry Diagnostic Medical Sonography) and became a member of ARDMS
In 2011; Her commitment to advancing vascular care led to the establishment of The Duplex Center and Vein Clinics of Egypt, centers of excellence specializing in vascular and ultrasound-guided modern vein therapy. She conducted hundreds of workshops introducing and spreading the concepts of modern vein therapy in diagnosis and different modern treatment modalities; currently she is part of the teaching body of the Egyptian Vascular Board. Her extensive teaching engagements extend beyond Egypt, including courses in the UAE (Cleveland Clinic - Abu Dhabi) and in India; as Co-director of the EUVIC conducted by Prof. Ravul Jindal.
A member of UIP Education Committee; 2019 till current. In April 2020;she has been selected Guest of "Honor Box" of UIP Newsletter.
She widely published in the field of arterial , venous and lymphatic medicine. She has a huge contribution as Speaker and Chairperson in National & International Vascular conferences for more than 500 talks.
Dr. Taha is the perfect asset for promoting a global interest toward Phlebology & Lymphology; for both her professional and humane qualities, combined with her excellent linguistic skills.
In My Vision; UIP serves as the umbrella organization uniting vein and lymphatic societies worldwide, fostering collaboration, advancing education, and promoting equitable representation across continents and with gender equity.
As a woman from Egypt, Africa, I apply for Vice- President as I see my core mission as fostering interaction and synergy among African societies; with gender equity consideration.
A central pillar of my vision is to encourage African societies in joining UIP. I began this journey by introducing the Tunisian society, with the honor of presenting Dr Jihane Ben Cheikh during the 24th UIP monthly meeting in November 2024. Consistently prioritize collaboration with our African counterparts. In our society EAVLA meetings; we’ve had the privilege of hosting distinguished representatives from Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and South Africa, creating meaningful connections between North and Sub-Saharan Africa.
I firmly believe that, together, we can awaken what I often refer to as the "sleeping giant"—a continent of 54 countries, and rich in diversity, potential, and untapped expertise.
This vision aligns closely with my work in Rotary International, where I lead medical convoys to underserved regions. I was honored to secure a Rotary grant for a project providing vital treatment for patients suffering from devastating venous leg ulcers in remote areas; since 2022 till current
In summary, my vision for UIP is to unite and to promote a great synergetic interaction; together; with the UIP Vice-presidents & executive committee, strengthen international collaboration, and promote excellence in Phlebology and Lymphology. To be the voice of the often voiceless societies; particularly from Africa. My linguistic skills; my fluency in Arabic, English, and French, the three major languages of Africa, will be valuable assets and advantages in achieving my vision
I am
African: by responsibility.
Phlebologist: by passion.
UIP ian: by commitment.
Pending acceptance
Pending nomination from Japanese Society of Phlebology
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