Lanusei Surgeon Leads Innovative Care in Sardinia’s Blue Zone

Lanusei, Ogliastra, Sardinia – The “Nostra Signora della Mercede” Hospital in Lanusei is gaining recognition as a center of excellence for geriatric surgery, led by Dr. Gian Pietro Gusai and his multidisciplinary team. The hospital is located in a designated “Blue Zone,” an area known for its high concentration of centenarians and exceptional longevity, presenting unique opportunities and challenges in surgical care.

A 103-Year-Old’s Recovery

Recently, a 103-year-old man, affectionately known as “Uncle Antonio” by locals, successfully underwent intestinal surgery at the hospital. After a successful check-up, he was seen leaving the hospital, enjoying the Sardinian sky. As reported by local sources, he quipped, “Pedde mala no nde morit!” (“Tough guys don’t die!”) highlighting the resilience often observed in this population.¹

Dr. Gian Pietro Gusai: A Pioneer in Geriatric Surgery

Dr. Gusai, director of General Surgery, has transformed the Lanusei health center since his arrival in 2020. His expertise in treating fragile patients has drawn patients from across Sardinia. A pioneer in robotic surgery in Europe, Dr. Gusai gained experience through training stages in Italy and abroad, including locations in Great Britain, Spain, Germany, France and the United States.¹

A Multidisciplinary Team Approach

The success of the department is attributed to its diverse and collaborative team, including doctors Claudia Burchi, Simona Aresu, Karel Andalia Perez, Viguera Rais, and Martin Barruacco, as well as Dr. Massimiliano Tuveri. This team handles complex operations, including an increasing number performed on patients over eighty and ninety years old.¹

Expanding Surgical Capabilities

Under Dr. Gusai’s leadership, the Ogliastra local health authority has expanded its healthcare offerings to include pancreas surgery, building upon a strong foundation established with experience at hospitals in Nuoro and Cagliari.¹ The department also manages a range of emergency and trauma cases, including procedures like chest drain placement and thoracentesis.

The “Blue Zone” Effect

The hospital’s location within a Blue Zone contributes to its unique patient population. Residents of Ogliastra demonstrate remarkable resilience and hemodynamic stability during invasive procedures, confirming the region’s reputation for longevity.¹ Centenarians often exhibit psychological strength and provide support to younger patients, fostering a humanized care environment.

Growing Demand for Specialized Care

Between 2020 and 2025, the Lanusei surgery department recorded over 1,400 admissions from across Sardinia, seeking specialized care not readily available elsewhere.¹ This highlights the increasing demand for advanced geriatric surgical services in the region.

² On March 10, 2026, a multi-organ donation took place in Ogliastra, with the liver and kidneys of an 83-year-old woman giving hope to three individuals awaiting transplants.