Dr. Bonnie Ann Burke – General Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Bonnie Ann Burke is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at Halton Healthcare Services and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Toronto, ON, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). She has expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. She performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. The surgical 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. Burke graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada. With over 25 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1999, she has developed a broad and deep expertise in her field. She is recognized as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her extensive training and years of practice ensure she provides expert surgical care tailored to each patient's needs.

Committed to providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care, Dr. Burke emphasizes a patient-centered approach that ensures clear communication and shared decision-making. She utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to facilitate quicker recovery and less postoperative discomfort. Dr. Burke collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. She provides surgical consultations and care in English, with a focus on delivering personalized, compassionate treatment to her patients in Toronto.

Dr. Bonnie Burke provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Burke addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Surgical treatment for life-threatening complications of peptic ulcers, such as perforation leading to peritonitis.
• Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits; severe cases may require surgery.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Procedures may include bowel resection, strictureplasty, or colectomy with ostomy or pouch creation.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Burke addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.

• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Surgical excision of malignant tumors arising from soft tissues (muscle, fat, connective tissue).
• Pancreatic Cancer (when resectable): Complex surgical procedures like the Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) for tumors in the head of the pancreas.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Bonnie Burke is necessary.

• Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A less extensive examination compared to a full colonoscopy.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Endocrine surgical procedures requiring careful dissection and nerve preservation.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Discussing the surgical plan, expected outcomes, and answering patient questions before surgery.
• General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical correction of hernias, where an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin.

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. Burke.

All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Burke's primary clinic is located at Halton Healthcare Services in Toronto's Downsview Central neighborhood. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals equipped with modern operating rooms. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Situated near Exhibition Place, the location is easily accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), with convenient parking options usually available nearby, including accessible parking. The environment provides a professional and patient-oriented setting for consultations and follow-up surgical care, ensuring a seamless experience from initial assessment through recovery.

When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Burke?

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Burke 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.

What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Burke?

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Burke is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Burke 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 types of surgical procedures does Dr. Burke perform?

Dr. Burke, 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. Burke may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Burke ever specialize further?

Indeed. After completing general surgery residency, surgeons can opt for further fellowship training to subspecialize. Dr. Burke, 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.

Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Burke?

Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Burke is an opportunity to evaluate your condition, discuss diagnostic findings, and explore all treatment options. In some cases, surgery may be the recommended course of action, but in others, non-surgical management, observation, or further investigation might be more appropriate. Dr. Burke will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.

Halton Healthcare Services
25 Morton Shulman Avenue, Oakville ON L6M 0L8
Toronto, ON M3M 0B1

Clinic Phone: (647) 329-1827 | Clinic Fax: (647) 329-2013

The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.

Dr. Burke is a licensed General Surgeon 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 or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Burke for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Burke's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Burke-Bonnie-Ann/0056345-67933