Dr. Andrew Robert Girvan – Urologist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Andrew Robert Girvan is a dedicated Urologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract in men and women, and the male reproductive system. Practicing at North York General Hospital in Ottawa, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Girvan provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urological issues, including kidney stones, prostate conditions, bladder problems, and male reproductive health concerns. His approach emphasizes patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual receives tailored diagnosis and treatment plans. The clinic is equipped with modern facilities to facilitate thorough evaluations and minimally invasive procedures, supporting optimal patient outcomes.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has over 19 years of experience practicing as a Urologist since 2005. Dr. Girvan is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Girvan’s clinical philosophy centers on providing compassionate, evidence-based urological care. He is dedicated to utilizing the most advanced and minimally invasive techniques where appropriate, ensuring patients are well-informed about their conditions and treatment options. Fluent in English, he strives to offer clear communication and reassurance throughout the care process, with a focus on patient education and engagement in decision-making. His goal is to support his patients in achieving the best possible urinary health and quality of life.

Dr. Andrew Girvan addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:

Prostate & Male Genital Conditions

• Peyronie's Disease: A condition where scar tissue (plaque) forms under the skin of the penis, causing curved, painful erections.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) / Enlarged Prostate: Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, common in aging men, causing urinary symptoms.
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.

Urologic Cancers

• Penile Cancer: A rare type of cancer that occurs on or in the penis.
• Ureteral & Renal Pelvis Cancer: Cancers that form in the urothelial cells lining the ureters (tubes connecting kidneys to bladder) or renal pelvis (funnel-like part of kidney).
• Kidney Cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma): Cancer that originates in the kidneys, with renal cell carcinoma being the most common type in adults.

General Urologic Symptoms & Disorders

• Urinary Frequency, Urgency & Nocturia: Symptoms of needing to urinate often, suddenly, or frequently during the night, which can indicate various underlying conditions.
• Painful Urination (Dysuria): Discomfort or burning sensation during urination, often a symptom of infection or inflammation.
• Neurogenic Bladder: Bladder dysfunction caused by neurological damage or conditions affecting nerve control of the bladder.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. Andrew Girvan.

• Imaging Review & Interpretation (Ultrasound, CT, MRI for Urological Conditions): Expert review of radiological imaging related to the kidneys, bladder, prostate, and other urogenital organs.
• Testicular Conditions Management (e.g., Testicular Torsion, Hydrocele, Varicocele, Epididymitis): Diagnosis and treatment of various conditions affecting the testicles and scrotum.
• Interstitial Cystitis / Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) Management: Multimodal approaches to manage chronic bladder pain and discomfort.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) / Enlarged Prostate Management: Medical and surgical treatments for lower urinary tract symptoms caused by non-cancerous prostate enlargement (e.g., TURP, UroLift, Rezum, medication).
• Testicular Cancer Diagnosis, Staging & Management: Including radical inguinal orchiectomy and coordination with oncologists for further therapy.
• Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism) Management: Diagnosis and treatment of low testosterone levels, including hormone replacement therapy.
• Kidney Cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma) Diagnosis & Surgical Treatment: Including partial and radical nephrectomy (open, laparoscopic, robotic).

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Girvan for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

North York General Hospital in Ottawa's Nepean neighbourhood, specifically within the Centrepoint, Tanglewood, and Craig Henry areas, serves as a key medical facility. The hospital's urological care unit provides specialized services in a modern, accessible environment. The practice's location is conveniently situated near the National Arts Centre (Southam Hall entrance) and Sparks Street Mall, offering easy access to cultural landmarks. Public transit options include OC Transpo services, including the O-Train LRT and bus routes, making it accessible for patients from across Ottawa. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Ample parking is available through metered street parking and nearby parking lots, facilitating convenient visits for patients and visitors alike.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Girvan, a Urologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Girvan, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer technologies, medications, or elective procedures (like cosmetic urology or certain non-insured infertility treatments) may not be covered or may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Girvan's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Girvan, a Urologist?

Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in ON, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Girvan. This ensures your care is coordinated and appropriate. Some specific services, like vasectomy in certain private clinic settings, might occasionally be accessed directly, but for general urological assessment or provincially insured care, a referral is the standard pathway.

What are some common tests a Urologist might perform or order?

Depending on your symptoms and condition, Dr. Girvan may perform or order several tests. These can include urinalysis (urine test), urine culture, blood tests (like PSA for prostate health), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI of the kidneys, bladder, or prostate), urodynamic studies (to assess bladder function), and cystoscopy (a scope to look inside the bladder and urethra). He will explain why any specific test is needed and what it involves.

What is a cystoscopy and why might I need one?

A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your urologist, such as Dr. Girvan, to look directly inside your bladder and urethra using a thin, lighted instrument called a cystoscope. It might be recommended to investigate symptoms like blood in the urine, frequent UTIs, bladder pain, or difficulty urinating. It can also be used to take biopsies or perform minor treatments. He will explain the procedure and any preparation needed.

What does a vasectomy involve if performed by Dr. Girvan?

A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure for permanent male contraception. It involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. Dr. Girvan would perform this procedure, usually in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. It's a highly effective form of birth control. It's important to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and the fact that it's considered permanent with Dr. Girvan beforehand.

What is a PSA test and who should have it?

The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a blood test primarily used to screen for prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. The decision to have a PSA test is best made in consultation with your doctor, like Dr. Girvan, after discussing the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of screening. Factors such as age, family history of prostate cancer, and ethnicity are often considered. It's not a perfect test, as elevated PSA can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions like BPH or prostatitis.

North York General Hospital
1NE-732, 1 Centrepointe Drive, Department of Medical Imaging
Ottawa, ON K2G 6E2

Phone: (613) 228-6929 | Fax: (613) 228-0191

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Girvan is a licensed Urologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Girvan for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Girvan-Andrew-Robert/0168980-74753