About
Dr. Basavaraj Ankalagi is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at facilities in Thunder Bay, ON, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, evidence-based care. Dr. Ankalagi's role involves comprehensive management of anesthesia to optimize patient safety and comfort throughout all phases of medical procedures.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences in India and has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology since 2024. Dr. Ankalagi completed extensive post-graduate medical training in Anesthesiology, acquiring the necessary certifications and clinical expertise to deliver specialized anesthetic services. His training emphasizes both technical proficiency and patient-centered care, aligning with best practices and current medical evidence.
Dr. Ankalagi's clinical philosophy is rooted in an evidence-based and informative approach, prioritizing patient safety and comfort in Thunder Bay. He is committed to continuous learning and applying the latest advancements in anesthesiology. Fluent in English, he communicates clearly and compassionately with patients, ensuring they are well-informed and comfortable before, during, and after procedures.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) / Sedation: Providing varying levels of sedation (light to deep) and analgesia, combined with close monitoring of vital signs, for procedures not requiring general anesthesia.
- 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.
- Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
- 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. Ankalagi (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 Ontario (CPSO).
Dr. Ankalagi primarily practices at the Greater Niagara General Hospital, located in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The hospital is conveniently situated near Magnus Theatre, offering accessible services for patients from the surrounding community. Patients can reach the facility via Thunder Bay Transit, which provides reliable public transportation options. The hospital's infrastructure is designed to be inclusive, with the facility being wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, ensuring ease of access for all patients.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Ankalagi? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Ankalagi during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Ankalagi 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. Ankalagi from the team covering your procedure.
- What if I have allergies or previous bad reactions to anesthesia?
- It is absolutely crucial to inform Dr. Ankalagi during your pre-anesthetic assessment about any known allergies (to medications, latex, food, etc.) and any previous experiences (good or bad) with anesthesia or sedation. This information helps tailor a safe plan and avoid agents you may react to.
- How do my existing health conditions (e.g., heart problems, asthma, sleep apnea) affect anesthesia?
- Existing health conditions are a key part of the pre-anesthetic assessment. Dr. Ankalagi needs to know about all conditions like heart disease, lung problems (asthma, COPD, sleep apnea), diabetes, kidney disease, etc. This information allows he to choose the safest anesthetic drugs and techniques, anticipate potential issues, and optimize monitoring during your procedure. For example, adjustments might be made for sleep apnea or specific cardiac monitoring used for heart conditions.
- What happens in the recovery room (PACU)?
- After your procedure under general or regional anesthesia/sedation, you will be taken to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), also known as the recovery room. Specially trained nurses will closely monitor your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and level of consciousness as you wake up. They will also manage any immediate pain or nausea under the guidance of the anesthesia team.
Greater Niagara General Hospital
980 Oliver Road, Neurology Clinic
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4
Phone: (807) 684-6000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Ankalagi is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Ankalagi-Basavaraj/0336545-135615