Dr. Brian Smilovici – Orthopedic Surgeon | Pointe-Claire, QC

Dr. Brian Smilovici is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at Hôpital général Lakeshore in Pointe-Claire, QC, Dr. Smilovici is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Smilovici is licensed by The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in QC. Dr. Smilovici serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care as a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, 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. Brian Smilovici earned a Medical Degree in 2015. Subsequently, Dr. Smilovici completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. With over 10 years of specialized surgical practice since 2015, Dr. Smilovici's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Smilovici 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. Smilovici's surgical practice philosophy include: a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient; providing clear explanations of conditions and treatment options to empower patients in their healthcare journey. Dr. Smilovici offers consultations in French.

As an Chirurgien orthopédiste, Dr. Brian Smilovici 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.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Addressing the musculoskeletal consequences of autoimmune joint diseases in collaboration with rheumatologists.
• 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.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Surgical management for chronic or severe cases of tendon inflammation (tendonitis) or bursa inflammation (bursitis) unresponsive to conservative care.
• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Surgical debridement and management of bone infections, often in conjunction with long-term antibiotic therapy.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Reconstructive procedures to promote bone healing and restore proper alignment.

Traumatic Injuries

• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.
• Fractures (Broken Bones): Treating all types of bone fractures in adults and children, from simple breaks requiring casting to complex injuries needing surgical fixation.
• Dislocations: Managing joint dislocations where bones are forced out of their normal position, often requiring reduction and immobilization.
• Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.

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. Smilovici, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Complex Fracture and Trauma Surgery: Specialized surgical treatment for severe fractures, multiple injuries, pelvic and acetabular fractures, and post-traumatic complications like nonunions or malunions.
• Hip Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Surgical reconstruction of the hip joint, including total hip arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty, for conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or hip fractures.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Performing total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for conditions like osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and complex fractures.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Performing a wide range of surgical interventions for various musculoskeletal conditions affecting different parts of the body.
• Total Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Performing primary and revision hip, knee, and shoulder replacement surgeries to relieve pain and restore function in patients with advanced arthritis or joint damage.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Smilovici. 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. Brian Smilovici adhere to the scope of practice for Chirurgien orthopédistes in QC and the standards of The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

At Hôpital général Lakeshore, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Smilovici frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Smilovici expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of pain and weakness after a bad fall or accident. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by a clear diagnosis and understanding of their musculoskeletal condition, means they can happily and comfortably get back to participating in family vacations and outings that involve walking.
• For individuals troubled by chronic pain in a joint that hasn't responded to other treatments, Dr. Smilovici's approach is focused on delivering successful healing of their broken bone (fracture). This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like confidently navigating uneven surfaces or terrain with restored musculoskeletal health.
• Are you struggling with their child being born with a clubfoot or hip problems? Dr. Smilovici partners with patients to target feeling empowered to take an active role in their recovery and rehabilitation, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as returning to their job, especially if it's physically demanding a much more achievable reality.

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

Dr. Smilovici's practice, Hôpital général Lakeshore, is situated in a central location within the Pointe-Claire neighborhood of Pointe-Claire. The clinic is conveniently located near local healthcare facilities and community services and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Please inquire about parking options if you have mobility concerns.

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

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

How is an Orthopedic Surgeon different from a Rheumatologist or a Physiatrist?

While all three specialties deal with musculoskeletal issues, their primary approaches differ. Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Smilovici are surgical specialists who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems with both surgical and non-surgical methods, performing operations when necessary (e.g., joint replacements, fracture fixation). Rheumatologists are medical specialists who primarily diagnose and manage non-surgical inflammatory and autoimmune conditions affecting joints, muscles, and bones, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and gout, often using medications. Physiatrists (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialists) focus on optimizing function and quality of life through primarily non-surgical means, comprehensive rehabilitation planning, and managing disabilities across a spectrum of conditions, including musculoskeletal and neurological issues. They often coordinate multidisciplinary care involving therapists.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Smilovici covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ))?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Smilovici are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging ordered is also usually covered. However, some specific items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. It's always best for patients to inquire with Hôpital général Lakeshore about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like the hip, knee, or shoulder) are removed and replaced with artificial components (prostheses) made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. Dr. Smilovici might recommend joint replacement if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function, typically due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments (like medication, injections, physiotherapy) are no longer providing adequate relief. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

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

Yes, in QC, 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. Smilovici for consultations and potential surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Smilovici has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

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

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Smilovici are experts in treating 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 then immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace to allow it to heal. Surgical treatment might be necessary for more complex fractures, open fractures (where the bone breaks the skin), or fractures that are unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation (using plates, screws, rods, or pins to hold the bone pieces together) or external fixation (using a frame outside the body connected to pins in the bone). Dr. Smilovici will determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the bone heals correctly and function is restored.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Smilovici do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Smilovici is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage a wide range of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. While they are surgeons, Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy) to treat patients. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Smilovici at Hôpital général Lakeshore?

The first visit will typically involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the specific problem (e.g., pain, injury, loss of function), how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities and quality of life. Dr. Smilovici will review any previous treatments and will perform a thorough physical examination of the affected area(s), assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Smilovici will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, working with the patient to establish goals.

Hôpital général Lakeshore
160 av Stillview
Pointe-Claire, QC, H9R 2Y2

Phone: (514) 630-2225

Dr. Brian Smilovici is a licensed Chirurgien orthopédiste in QC, regulated by The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Code des professions & Loi médicale (Québec).

License Number: 15498

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=15498

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Smilovici. Dr. Smilovici 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.