Dr. Dalilah Fortin – General Surgeon | London, ON

Dr. Dalilah Fortin is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in London and performing surgeries at London Health Sciences Centre in London, 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. Her approach is patient-centered, emphasizing safety, effectiveness, and evidence-based care. The 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. Fortin graduated with a Medical Degree from Université Laval Faculté de Médecine in Canada. With over 21 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 2003, she brings a wealth of knowledge and surgical expertise to her patients. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her certifications reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of surgical practice and continuous professional development.

Her professional philosophy revolves around providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. She is committed to a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Dr. Fortin utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery and reduce discomfort. She collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to offer comprehensive patient management. Additionally, she communicates effectively in both English and French, allowing her to serve a diverse patient population in London. Her dedication to surgical excellence and ongoing professional growth ensures her patients receive the best possible care.

Dr. Dalilah Fortin provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Fortin 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).
• Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Management ranges from conservative treatment to elective or emergency colectomy.
• Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Protrusion of an organ or tissue through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Fortin addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.

• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Aim is to achieve wide, clear surgical margins to prevent local recurrence.
• Breast Cancer: Often involves sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection to assess cancer spread.
• Thyroid Cancer and other Endocrine Tumors: Management of other endocrine tumors such as parathyroid adenomas or adrenal tumors.

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

• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedures to alleviate pain and prevent complications associated with hernias.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Procedure to visualize the upper digestive tract directly.
• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques or traditional open surgery.
• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Endocrine surgical procedures requiring careful dissection and nerve preservation.
• Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Often involves coordination with oncologists and plastic surgeons for comprehensive breast cancer care.

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. Fortin.

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. Fortin practices primarily at a surgical clinic located in London's Downtown London East neighborhood. The clinic is situated close to Parkwood Institute, providing convenient access for patients from North London East and surrounding areas. Surgical procedures are typically performed at London Health Sciences Centre, a major hospital equipped with modern surgical suites and post-operative care units. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients and visitors can generally find parking in hospital-affiliated lots or nearby public parking facilities. The environment is professional and patient-oriented, ensuring a comfortable setting for consultations, surgical planning, and follow-up care.

Does Dr. Fortin perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?

Many General Surgeons like Dr. Fortin 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. Fortin whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.

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

You would typically be referred to Dr. Fortin if your primary care physician identifies a condition that might benefit from surgical intervention or a specialist surgical opinion. Common reasons include issues like gallstones, appendicitis, hernias, bowel problems, thyroid nodules, breast lumps, or certain skin lesions. General surgeons also perform diagnostic procedures like endoscopies or biopsies to help confirm a diagnosis before planning surgery.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Fortin perform?

As a General Surgeon, Dr. Fortin is skilled in a variety of surgical procedures. Common operations include appendectomies (appendix removal), cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal), hernia repairs, bowel resections (for conditions like cancer or diverticulitis), thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and surgeries for breast conditions. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques, which often lead to quicker recovery. The specific procedures offered depend on Dr. Fortin's areas of focus within general surgery.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Fortin do?

Dr. Fortin, a General Surgeon, is a specialist surgeon who manages a wide variety of common and complex surgical problems. General surgeons are often the primary surgical contact for conditions involving the digestive tract, abdominal organs, hernias, breast diseases, and skin/soft tissue lesions. They are trained in numerous surgical techniques, including minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery, and play a critical role in both planned (elective) operations and emergency surgical situations.

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

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

Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Fortin 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. Fortin will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.

800 Commissioners Road East
London, ON N6A 5W9

Clinic Phone: (519) 685-8777 | Clinic Fax: (519) 685-8778

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

Dr. Fortin 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. Fortin for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Fortin's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Fortin-Dalilah/0204115-79367