About
Dr. Benjamin Antoine Poelzer Matthew is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Quesnel and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Quesnel, BC, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Matthew has expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. He performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. His practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.
Dr. Matthew graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2009. He holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon and is credentialed by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His certifications reflect his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of surgical practice and patient safety. He actively participates in ongoing professional development to stay current with advances in surgical techniques and healthcare standards.
Dr. Matthew’s professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, he aims to minimize discomfort and promote quicker recovery. Dr. Matthew collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to surgical excellence for patients in Quesnel. He provides surgical consultations and care in English, with a compassionate and skilled manner that prioritizes patient well-being.
Dr. Benjamin Matthew provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Matthew addresses a range of disorders affecting organs within the abdomen, including the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and colon.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Procedures may include bowel resection, strictureplasty, or colectomy with ostomy or pouch creation.
- Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Common types include inguinal (groin), umbilical (belly button), and incisional (at the site of a previous surgery).
- Bowel Obstruction (Small or Large Intestine): Can be caused by adhesions, hernias, tumors, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Matthew addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.
- Breast Cancer: Surgical treatment options including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast).
- Thyroid Cancer and other Endocrine Tumors: Requires expertise in endocrine surgery to preserve vital structures.
- Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Surgical resection of tumors in the colon or rectum, often the primary treatment for localized disease.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Benjamin Matthew is necessary.
- General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general surgical procedures.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Advanced surgical techniques requiring specialized training and equipment.
- Sigmoidoscopy: Examination of the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) using a flexible or rigid scope.
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Monitoring recovery after surgical procedures, managing potential complications.
- Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Surgical procedures for benign and malignant breast conditions.
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. Matthew.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Matthew practices primarily at a surgical clinic located within a well-equipped medical facility in Quesnel. This clinic is situated in a neighborhood accessible via major transportation routes and is close to key healthcare facilities, including local hospitals. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients and visitors can generally find parking in hospital-affiliated lots or nearby public parking facilities. The environment promotes a professional, compassionate, and patient-oriented experience for consultations and follow-up surgical care.
- Does Dr. Matthew perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Matthew to offer minimally invasive surgical options, including laparoscopic procedures. This approach can lead to benefits like reduced pain and quicker recovery times for many common surgeries. The suitability of laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific medical condition and individual patient factors, which Dr. Matthew would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Matthew?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Matthew doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Matthew 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. Matthew after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Matthew?
- Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Matthew varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, whether it was open or laparoscopic, your overall health, and individual healing factors. For minor procedures, recovery might be a few days to a couple of weeks. For more major abdominal surgeries, it could be several weeks to a few months. Dr. Matthew will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Matthew perform?
- As a General Surgeon, Dr. Matthew is skilled in a variety of surgical procedures. Common operations include appendectomies (appendix removal), cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal), hernia repairs, bowel resections (for conditions like cancer or diverticulitis), thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and surgeries for breast conditions. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques, which often lead to quicker recovery. The specific procedures offered depend on Dr. Matthew's areas of focus within general surgery.
- Do General Surgeons like Dr. Matthew ever specialize further?
- Indeed. After completing general surgery residency, surgeons can opt for further fellowship training to subspecialize. Dr. Matthew, as a General Surgeon, has a wide scope of practice, but some general surgeons focus more on specific areas like vascular surgery, pediatric surgery (if they have dual certification or focus), or cancer surgery (surgical oncology). General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions. This allows them to offer highly specialized care within those fields while maintaining their broad general surgical skills.
545 Front St, Dr Benjamin Matthew
Quesnel, BC V2J 2K7
Clinic Phone: (250) 985-5517
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Matthew is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Matthew for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).
Verify Dr. Matthew's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/331354/Matthew%2CBenjamin