Dr. Andrew William Howard – Orthopedic Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Andrew William Howard is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Toronto, ON, Dr. Howard is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Howard is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in ON. As a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, Dr. Howard is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. The goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical means. Dr. Howard serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care.

Dr. Andrew William Howard earned a Medical Degree from Queen'S University, graduating in 1990. Subsequently, Dr. Howard completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Howard brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Howard's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Howard is committed to ongoing professional development and staying at the forefront of orthopedic advancements to offer the best possible care to patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Howard's surgical practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care; a patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment decisions are made collaboratively with the patient's goals and lifestyle in mind. Dr. Howard is fluent in English and also offers consultations in French.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Andrew William Howard diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Treating bone death caused by a loss of blood supply, commonly affecting the hip, knee, or shoulder, which can lead to joint collapse.
• Osteoarthritis: Managing joint pain, stiffness, and loss of function caused by wear-and-tear arthritis affecting joints like the hip, knee, shoulder, hand, or spine.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Surgical and non-surgical management of joint damage and deformities caused by rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthropathies.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Procedures such as debridement or bursectomy when indicated.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Surgical correction of fractures that have failed to heal (nonunion) or have healed in an incorrect position (malunion).

Sports Injuries

• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Surgical and non-surgical management of acute tendon ruptures and chronic tendinopathies.
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.
• Meniscus Tears: Treating a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms.
• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Specialized care for common sports-related ligamentous injuries.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, which may be surgical or non-surgical, are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Howard, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Therapeutic Joint and Soft Tissue Injections: Utilizing image guidance (e.g., ultrasound) for precise injection placement when necessary.
• Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (Musculoskeletal): Utilizing advanced imaging to accurately diagnose fractures, soft tissue injuries, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal pathologies.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Performing total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for conditions like osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and complex fractures.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Exploring all appropriate non-operative avenues before considering surgery.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Performing a wide range of surgical interventions for various musculoskeletal conditions affecting different parts of the body.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Howard. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any procedure or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation.

All surgical and non-surgical treatments by Dr. Andrew William Howard adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Dr. Andrew William Howard's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Howard frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Howard with concerns about their child being born with a clubfoot or hip problems. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve significant pain relief in their affected joint or limb, making a positive and lasting return to opening jars or turning doorknobs without difficulty (for hand issues) not just possible, but highly feasible.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Howard to see patients who were troubled by difficulty lifting their arm due to a rotator cuff tear successfully achieve being able to return to sports or recreational activities they enjoy. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like carrying a backpack or handbag without shoulder or back pain.
• Understanding the frustration a recent ankle sprain that isn't getting better can cause, Dr. Howard tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve reduced or eliminated numbness and tingling from nerve compression (e.g., carpal tunnel), allowing for renewed participation in activities like participating in fitness classes or going to the gym.

Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Howard, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Howard is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Howard's orthopedic clinic in Toronto is situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the Toronto Reference Library and is easily accessible via the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Details on parking can be provided when you book your consultation.

Do I typically need a referral to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Howard?

In Ontario, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist (e.g., sports medicine physician, rheumatologist) is generally required to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Howard for consultations and potential surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Howard has the necessary background medical information. If you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Howard?

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery (e.g., arthroscopy vs. joint replacement vs. fracture fixation), the specific joint or bone, the patient's age and health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Minor procedures may take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months for full recovery. Dr. Howard will discuss the expected recovery timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Howard covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP))?

Most consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Howard are typically covered by provincial health plans such as OHIP in Ontario, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging is also usually covered. However, some items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

How does Dr. Howard treat broken bones (fractures)?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Howard treat all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace. Surgical treatment might be necessary for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation (using plates, screws, etc.) or external fixation (using a frame outside the body). Dr. Howard will determine the most appropriate treatment.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Howard do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Howard is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves). They manage fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. They use both surgical (joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical (medication, injections, bracing, physiotherapy) methods to treat patients. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Howard recommend it?

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, replaces damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (hip, knee, shoulder) with artificial components. Dr. Howard might recommend it if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments are inadequate. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Howard at the clinic?

The first visit involves a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, the problem, how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities. Dr. Howard will review previous treatments and perform a thorough physical examination. Any prior imaging will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Howard will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment options.

What is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at our clinic for Dr. Howard?

We understand unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 72 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Howard. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 72 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire about the specific fee.

Unit Suite 326, 555 University Avenue, Suite 326
Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8

Phone: (416) 813-6430

Dr. Andrew William Howard is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in ON, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 62172

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Howard-Andrew-William/0048194-62172

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Howard. Dr. Howard and the team are dedicated to providing expert orthopedic care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.