Dr. Alan Cory Tiessen – Anesthesiologist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Alan Cory Tiessen is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Calgary, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams. He adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that patient safety and comfort are always prioritized. Dr. Tiessen provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, tailoring approaches to meet the unique needs of each patient requiring anesthesia for surgical or medical procedures.

He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Calgary in 1993 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology. His advanced certifications and ongoing professional development reflect his commitment to excellence and up-to-date practices in anesthesiology, critical care, and pain management.

Dr. Tiessen’s clinical philosophy centers on calm, reassuring communication and meticulous attention to patient safety. He is dedicated to reducing anxiety, ensuring comfort, and maintaining the highest standards of care within Calgary. He speaks fluent English and is committed to providing clear, compassionate explanations throughout the perioperative process.

• Pre-Anesthetic Assessment and Consultation: Thorough evaluation of patient health, medical history, medications, and surgical/procedural plan to create the safest and most effective anesthesia plan.
• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
• General Anesthesia Administration: Inducing and maintaining a controlled state of unconsciousness ('sleep') using intravenous or inhaled medications, ensuring patient comfort and immobility during major surgery.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Tiessen (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. Tiessen practices primarily at medical facilities located in the NE neighborhoods of Calgary, including Falconridge, Coral Springs, and Castleridge, with easy access to Chinook Centre. These facilities are conveniently reachable via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing easy access for patients and visitors.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Tiessen? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Tiessen during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. Tiessen for my anesthesia?

While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Tiessen from the team covering your procedure.

What are common side effects of anesthesia?

Common, usually temporary side effects can include nausea, vomiting, sore throat (if a breathing tube was used), drowsiness, dizziness, shivering, or minor discomfort at an IV or block site. Dr. Tiessen takes steps to minimize these (e.g., using anti-nausea medication). More serious side effects are uncommon but will be discussed if relevant to your specific situation.

What are the main types of anesthesia you might use?

Dr. Tiessen selects the safest and most appropriate anesthetic based on your health and the procedure. Options include:

• General Anesthesia: You'll be completely unconscious and unaware.
• Regional Anesthesia: A specific body part is numbed (e.g., spinal/epidural for lower body, nerve block for arm/leg). You might be awake or sedated.
• Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC)/Sedation: Medication helps you relax and feel drowsy, often used with local anesthetic by the surgeon.

The choice will be discussed with you beforehand.

What is the role of an Anesthesiologist?

An Anesthesiologist is a specialist medical doctor (physician) extensively trained in anesthesiology, critical care medicine, and pain management. They are responsible for developing the anesthesia plan, administering anesthetic drugs, ensuring your safety and vital functions (like breathing, heart rate, blood pressure) are stable during a procedure, managing any medical emergencies that arise, and overseeing your immediate recovery and pain control afterwards.

3500 26 Ave NE, Peter Lougheed Centre
Calgary, AB T1Y 6J4

Phone: (403) 943-5554 | Fax: (403) 943-4474

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Tiessen is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=baf04973-4f20-47b7-9594-c80fdf157ecd&i=1445