About
Dr. Candice Poon is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at a neurosurgery department within a major hospital in Calgary, AB, she is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring safe and effective neurosurgical care. Dr. Poon provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. Her practice is committed to utilizing advanced surgical techniques and fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment.
She graduated with a MD Doctor of Medicine from the University of Alberta (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. Her certifications include LMCC and FRCSC in Neurosurgery, reflecting her expertise and commitment to excellence in neurosurgical care. Dr. Poon maintains a focus on continuous professional development to stay at the forefront of neurosurgical advancements.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the integration of advanced technology. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care through multidisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive post-operative support. Fluent in English and Chinese, Dr. Poon strives to communicate effectively and empathetically with her diverse patient community in Calgary.
Dr. Candice Poon surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- Movement Disorders (Parkinson's, Essential Tremor, Dystonia - for DBS evaluation): Evaluation for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery for patients with movement disorders not adequately controlled by medication.
- Spasticity (severe, for Baclofen pump or selective dorsal rhizotomy consideration): Severe muscle stiffness and spasms, potentially managed with implantable drug delivery systems or nerve root surgery.
- Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome - surgical cases): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, potentially requiring surgical decompression or transposition.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (severe cases requiring surgery): Compression of the median nerve at the wrist, where surgery (carpal tunnel release) may be indicated if conservative treatments fail.
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Spinal Stenosis (Cervical, Lumbar): Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Herniated Disc (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): A condition where the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer ring, potentially compressing nerves.
- Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Candice Poon.
- Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
- Hydrocephalus Management (VP Shunt, ETV - Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy): Surgical treatment for abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, including shunt placement/revision and endoscopic procedures.
- Peripheral Nerve Tumor Resection (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Surgical removal of tumors arising from peripheral nerves.
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
- Cerebral Aneurysm Clipping & Coiling (Endovascular coiling often with Interventional Neuroradiology): Surgical or endovascular treatment to secure brain aneurysms and prevent rupture or re-rupture.
- Non-Operative Management of Select Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing conservative management options when surgery is not immediately indicated, including observation, medication management referrals, and pain management strategies.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife, CyberKnife) Planning & Coordination: Collaborating with radiation oncologists for non-invasive, highly focused radiation treatment for brain tumors, AVMs, and other neurological conditions.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Poon for care relevant to your specific condition.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Poon practices at a neurosurgery clinic within a hospital department located in Calgary's NW neighbourhood, specifically serving the Hillhurst, Westmount, and Sunnyside (Kensington) communities. The facility is conveniently situated near Chinook Centre and the Commercial Corridor South, offering accessible transportation options. Public transit users can reach the location via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Ample parking is available nearby, with metered street parking and parking lots for patient convenience.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Poon, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Poon, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some advanced technologies, specific implantable devices, or purely elective/cosmetic procedures may have different coverage. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Poon's office, the hospital's financial services, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) prior to any major procedure.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Poon, a Neurosurgeon?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician, an emergency room physician, or another specialist (like a neurologist or oncologist) is almost always required to see a Neurosurgeon such as Dr. Poon. Neurosurgical conditions are typically complex and require initial assessment and investigation before a neurosurgical consultation is appropriate. The referral ensures coordinated care and that you are directed to the right specialist.
- How is a brain tumor typically treated by a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Poon?
- The treatment for a brain tumor depends on its type, size, location, and the patient's overall health. For many tumors, surgical resection (removal) by a neurosurgeon like Dr. Poon is a primary treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible. Surgery may also be done to obtain a biopsy for diagnosis. Often, surgery is part of a multidisciplinary approach that may also include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, coordinated with oncologists and radiation oncologists.
- When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?
- A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Poon is typically made by another physician when a condition is suspected or diagnosed that may require surgical intervention or specialized neurosurgical assessment. This can include brain tumors, spinal disc herniations causing severe nerve compression, spinal stenosis, traumatic brain or spine injuries, cerebral aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), hydrocephalus, some forms of epilepsy, or peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes not responding to conservative treatment.
1403 29 St NW
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9
Phone: (403) 944-1110 | Website: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/fmc/fmc.aspx
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Poon is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Poon for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=77d6cdc3-0312-4b8f-93e4-fdc5abf8962e&i=1169