Description
About Dr. Andrew Mark James Shapiro
Dr. Andrew Mark James Shapiro is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Edmonton, he performs surgeries at affiliated local hospitals within the city. His practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care, adhering strictly to the standards of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). He has built a reputation for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. Dr. Shapiro performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to promote quicker recovery and reduced patient discomfort. His approach emphasizes a collaborative and compassionate environment, ensuring patients receive thorough consultation, clear communication, and comprehensive post-operative follow-up to support optimal health outcomes.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from England in 1988 and holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon. Dr. Shapiro has completed extensive postgraduate training and possesses all necessary certifications to practice as a General Surgeon in Alberta, including registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).
Dr. Shapiro's professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He is committed to a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making throughout the treatment process. Utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, he aims to enhance recovery times and minimize surgical risks. He collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive management for complex cases. Dedicated to ongoing professional development, Dr. Shapiro continuously updates his skills to uphold surgical excellence. Fluent in English and French, he can effectively communicate with a diverse patient population, ensuring understanding and comfort for all.
Surgical Conditions Addressed by Dr. Andrew Shapiro
Dr. Andrew Shapiro provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Shapiro addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Surgical management of complications or medically refractory Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Emergency surgery to repair perforated ulcers or control massive bleeding.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): Surgical intervention for severe or persistent bleeding from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract that is not controllable by endoscopic means.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Shapiro addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.
- Breast Cancer: Surgical treatment options including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast).
- Skin Cancers (e.g., Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): May include sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma to guide further treatment.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Andrew Shapiro is necessary.
Surgical Services Offered by Dr. Andrew Mark James Shapiro
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Advanced surgical techniques requiring specialized training and equipment.
- Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Consultations to help patients make informed decisions about their surgical care.
- Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Repair techniques include open surgery with or without mesh, and laparoscopic mesh repair.
- Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Procedures often performed under local anesthesia with attention to cosmetic closure.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
- General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general surgical procedures.
Note: This list provides an overview of common surgical areas. Specific procedures and treatment plans are determined on an individual basis after consultation with Dr. Shapiro.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Practice Location & Contact
Dr. Shapiro's primary clinic is located in a well-established surgical facility in Edmonton's S Central neighborhood, near the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park areas. The clinic provides a professional, welcoming environment for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and follow-up care. Surgical procedures are usually performed at affiliated local hospitals equipped with modern operating rooms and recovery areas. The practice is conveniently accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes, with ample parking options nearby, including accessible parking for patients with mobility needs. The facility and hospital environments are wheelchair accessible and designed to prioritize patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a dedicated, patient-focused approach in a setting that emphasizes safety, efficiency, and compassionate care.
Frequently Asked Questions about General Surgery
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Shapiro perform?
- Dr. Shapiro, a General Surgeon, performs a wide range of surgeries. These frequently involve organs in the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, appendix, stomach, and intestines. They also address hernias, conditions of the breast, thyroid gland, and skin/soft tissue masses. Depending on the condition and patient, Dr. Shapiro may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Shapiro?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Shapiro is usually made by your family doctor or another specialist when a condition is suspected or diagnosed that may require surgical evaluation or treatment. This could include persistent abdominal pain, a new lump or mass (e.g., in the breast or skin), symptoms of gallbladder disease, a hernia, signs of appendicitis, or concerns about colorectal conditions. They also manage conditions initially identified through screening, like colon polyps or early-stage breast cancer.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Shapiro?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Shapiro doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Shapiro to assess your condition thoroughly, review any tests, and discuss whether surgery is the most suitable treatment, or if alternative non-operative options should be considered. The final decision is typically made collaboratively between you and Dr. Shapiro after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Shapiro?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Shapiro is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Shapiro will discuss the expected recovery process, including hospital stay (if any), return to work, and activity restrictions, as part of your pre-operative consultation and post-operative care plan.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Shapiro do?
- A General Surgeon, such as Dr. Shapiro, is a highly trained physician specializing in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of a broad range of diseases affecting various parts of the body. Their expertise commonly includes conditions of the abdomen (e.g., appendix, gallbladder, intestines, stomach), breast, skin, soft tissues, and endocrine system (e.g., thyroid). They perform both elective and emergency surgeries and are skilled in pre-operative, operative, and post-operative patient care. As a General Surgeon, Dr. Shapiro provides comprehensive surgical management.
Clinic & Licensing Information
8440 112 St NW, UAH Hospitals
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7
Clinic Phone: (780) 492-3974 | Clinic Fax: (780) 492-2617
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Shapiro is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Shapiro for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).
Verify Dr. Shapiro's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0ea77bdf-6cdc-4fe2-8e3e-845efb5a2194&i=1315