Dr. Brett Lawrence Howe is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital and performing surgeries at Windsor Regional Hospital in Windsor, ON, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). He 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. 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.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada. With over 9 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 2015, Dr. Howe is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His extensive training and certification underpin his commitment to delivering safe and effective surgical care.
Dr. Howe’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 enhance recovery and reduce patient discomfort. Dr. Howe collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. His commitment is to offer the residents of Windsor high-quality surgical care with compassion and professionalism. He provides surgical consultations and care primarily in English.
Dr. Brett Howe provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Howe addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.
- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, a medical emergency typically requiring surgical removal (appendectomy).
- Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Common types include inguinal (groin), umbilical (belly button), and incisional (at the site of a previous surgery).
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Howe addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Often managed in collaboration with sarcoma specialists and oncologists.
- Thyroid Cancer and other Endocrine Tumors: Requires expertise in endocrine surgery to preserve vital structures.
- Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Procedures may include colectomy, rectal resection, and lymph node dissection.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Brett Howe is necessary.
- Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Used to investigate symptoms like heartburn, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or bleeding; can include biopsies or minor interventions.
- Colonoscopy: An important procedure for preventing and detecting colon cancer.
- Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Procedures often performed under local anesthesia with attention to cosmetic closure.
- Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Includes breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), removal of the entire breast (mastectomy), and diagnostic biopsies.
- Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Optimizing patient health before elective surgical procedures.
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and return to normal activities post-surgery.
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. Howe.
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. Howe's primary clinic is located at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, situated in Windsor's Fontainebleau and Walker Homesites neighbourhood. The clinic offers a professional and patient-oriented environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Surgical procedures are usually performed at Windsor Regional Hospital, which is easily accessible from the clinic. The area is well-served by public transportation options, including Transit Windsor, and features convenient parking, including accessible parking options nearby. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy, ensuring a welcoming setting for all patients. The practice is conveniently situated near Ottawa Street Shopping District, making it easy for patients to access services and amenities in Windsor.
- Does Dr. Howe perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Howe are trained in and regularly perform laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery. This technique involves making several small incisions instead of one large one, using a camera and specialized instruments to perform the operation. Laparoscopic approaches are common for procedures like gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and hernia repair, often resulting in less post-operative pain, smaller scars, and a faster return to normal activities. You should discuss with Dr. Howe whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Howe?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Howe is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Howe 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.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Howe?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Howe 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. Howe will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Howe?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Howe 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 types of surgical procedures does Dr. Howe perform?
- Dr. Howe, 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. Howe may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.
West Lincoln Memorial Hospital
203-6160 Tecumseh Rd E
Windsor, ON N8T 1E6
Clinic Phone: (226) 674-4120 | Clinic Fax: (226) 674-4121
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Howe 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. Howe for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).
Verify Dr. Howe's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Howe-Brett-Lawrence/0265804-92898