Dr. Carolina Fermin Risso – Urologist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Carolina Fermin Risso is a specialized Pediatric Urologist, dedicated to diagnosing and treating urological conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a urology clinic within a hospital department in Calgary, AB, she is an integral part of the local medical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Risso focuses on the unique urological needs of young patients, from congenital anomalies to acquired conditions, ensuring age-appropriate care. The clinic is equipped with modern facilities designed to provide comprehensive urological care tailored to pediatric patients, fostering a supportive environment for children and their families.

She graduated with a Medico Cirujano degree in 2001 from Venezuela and has accumulated over 15 years of experience as a Pediatric Urologist since 2009. Her certifications include the CGS - Certificate in General Surgery, General Surgery, and Urology, reflecting her extensive training and commitment to excellence in pediatric urological care. Throughout her career, she has continually advanced her expertise through ongoing education and professional development, ensuring her practice incorporates the latest evidence-based techniques.

Dr. Risso’s clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, utilizing advanced and minimally invasive techniques wherever appropriate. She is committed to providing thorough patient education, ensuring families understand their child’s condition and treatment options. Her dedication to compassionate care and clinical excellence is complemented by her ability to communicate fluently in both English and Spanish, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient populations in Calgary. She strives to support her young patients and their families through every step of their urological journey.

Dr. Carolina Risso addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:

Pediatric Urologic Conditions

• Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV): Obstructing flaps of tissue in the urethra of infant boys, affecting urine flow from the bladder.
• Pediatric Voiding Dysfunction (e.g., Enuresis - Bedwetting, Giggle Incontinence): Problems with bladder storage or emptying in children, including daytime or nighttime wetting.
• Hypospadias & Epispadias: Congenital conditions where the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis.

General Urologic Symptoms & Disorders

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) - Complicated or Recurrent: Infections affecting any part of the urinary system that are frequent, persistent, or associated with underlying factors.
• Urinary Frequency, Urgency & Nocturia: Symptoms of needing to urinate often, suddenly, or frequently during the night, which can indicate various underlying conditions.
• Hematuria (Blood in Urine): Presence of red blood cells in the urine, requiring investigation to determine the cause (e.g., infection, stones, tumors).

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. Carolina Risso.

• Evaluation & Management of Congenital Urological Anomalies in Children: Diagnosis and treatment of birth defects affecting the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and genitalia (e.g., hypospadias, undescended testes, vesicoureteral reflux).
• Bladder Biopsy: Obtaining tissue samples from the bladder, typically during cystoscopy, for diagnostic purposes.
• Comprehensive Urological Consultation & Evaluation: In-depth assessment of urinary tract and male reproductive system conditions, including medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic planning.
• Surgical Correction of Pediatric Urological Conditions (e.g., Hypospadias Repair, Orchiopexy): Performing specialized surgical procedures tailored for children with urogenital abnormalities.
• Pediatric Kidney Stone Management: Diagnosis and treatment of kidney stones in children, including minimally invasive techniques.
• Pediatric Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Management & Prevention: Addressing recurrent or complex UTIs in children, including investigation for underlying causes.
• Pediatric Voiding Dysfunction & Enuresis (Bedwetting) Management: Comprehensive assessment and treatment for children with bladder control problems.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Risso for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Located in the NW: Bowness, Montgomery, Greenwood neighborhood of Calgary, this urology department is a key medical facility within a larger hospital in the city. The practice is situated conveniently near Heritage Park Historical Village and provides easy access to public transit options, including Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and parking is available at or near the location, ensuring convenience for families visiting for pediatric urological care. This department plays a vital role in providing specialized urology services to the community, serving as a dedicated unit within a leading Calgary hospital.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Risso, a Pediatric Urologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Pediatric Urologist like Dr. Risso, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, 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 newer technologies, medications, or elective procedures (like cosmetic urology or certain non-insured infertility treatments) may not be covered or may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Risso's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Risso, a Pediatric Urologist?

Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in AB, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Pediatric Urologist like Dr. Risso. This ensures your care is coordinated and appropriate. Some specific services, like vasectomy in certain private clinic settings, might occasionally be accessed directly, but for general urological assessment or provincially insured care, a referral is the standard pathway.

When should I consider seeing a Urologist?

You should consider seeing a Urologist if you experience symptoms such as blood in your urine (hematuria), recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), difficulty urinating (hesitancy, weak stream, straining), frequent or urgent need to urinate, urinary incontinence (leakage), pain in the flank, lower abdomen, or groin that might be related to kidney stones, or any concerns related to the male reproductive organs (e.g., testicular pain/lumps, erectile dysfunction, male infertility). Your family doctor can help determine if a referral to a urologist like Dr. Risso is appropriate.

What treatment options are available for erectile dysfunction (ED) with Dr. Risso?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) has various treatment options available. After evaluating the potential causes, Dr. Risso may discuss lifestyle modifications, oral medications (like PDE5 inhibitors), vacuum erection devices, injection therapy (intracavernosal injections), or in some cases, surgical options like penile implants. The best treatment depends on the underlying cause of ED and individual patient factors and preferences.

What are the treatment options for an enlarged prostate (BPH)?

Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) depends on the severity of your symptoms and how much they affect your quality of life. Options range from lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive procedures (like UroLift, Rezum) and surgical treatments (such as TURP or laser prostatectomy). Dr. Risso can discuss the most suitable options for you based on your individual circumstances.

What is a cystoscopy and why might I need one?

A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your urologist, such as Dr. Risso, to look directly inside your bladder and urethra using a thin, lighted instrument called a cystoscope. It might be recommended to investigate symptoms like blood in the urine, frequent UTIs, bladder pain, or difficulty urinating. It can also be used to take biopsies or perform minor treatments. She will explain the procedure and any preparation needed.

When would my child need to see a Pediatric Urologist like Dr. Risso who specializes in pediatric urology?

Dr. Risso specializes in urological conditions affecting infants, children, and adolescents. Common reasons for referral include congenital abnormalities of the kidneys, bladder or genitalia (like undescended testes or hypospadias), vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), recurrent urinary tract infections, voiding dysfunction (like bedwetting or daytime incontinence), and pediatric kidney stones.

28 Oki Dr NW, Alberta Children's Hospital
Calgary, AB T3B 6A8

Phone: (403) 955-7757

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Risso is a licensed Pediatric Urologist 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 general pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Risso for pediatric urology 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=1ae7e5a7-fef4-45be-a447-59e1e36916c4&i=462