About
Dr. Daniel William Birch is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Edmonton and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Edmonton, AB, he is a respected member of the surgical community. Dr. Birch adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring safe, effective, and patient-centered care. His focus is on 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. His practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care, guiding patients from initial consultation through post-operative recovery with a collaborative approach.
Dr. Birch graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from McMaster University in 1992. He has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as a General Surgeon in Alberta. His credentials include specialty certification as a General Surgeon, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to surgical excellence. He continually updates his skills through ongoing professional development to stay abreast of the latest advancements in surgical techniques and patient care.
With a professional philosophy rooted in safety, efficacy, and evidence-based practice, Dr. Birch is committed to providing a patient-centered approach. He emphasizes clear communication, shared decision-making, and the use of minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery and better outcomes. Dr. Birch collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive management of his patients' conditions. His dedication to ongoing surgical excellence aims to deliver the highest standard of care for patients in Edmonton. He provides surgical consultations and care in English, ensuring effective communication and understanding throughout the treatment process.
Dr. Daniel Birch provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Birch addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): May involve resection of the bleeding source or oversewing of ulcers.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Surgical treatment for life-threatening complications of peptic ulcers, such as perforation leading to peritonitis.
- Appendicitis: A common cause of acute abdominal pain, especially in the right lower quadrant.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Birch addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.
- Pancreatic Cancer (when resectable): Surgery is an option for a subset of patients with localized disease.
- Skin Cancers (e.g., Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): May include sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma to guide further treatment.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Daniel Birch is necessary.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
- General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general surgical procedures.
- Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Excision of lumps and bumps (soft tissue masses) for diagnosis and treatment.
- Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): May involve open or laparoscopic approaches, with potential for anastomosis (reconnection) or ostomy creation.
- Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands (typically for hyperparathyroidism).
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. Birch.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Birch practices primarily at a surgical clinic located in the Edmonton Downtown East neighborhood, including areas such as Boyle Street and Riverdale. The clinic is conveniently situated close to Edmonton’s Downtown Core and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals with dedicated surgical suites. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to ensure patient comfort and privacy. Patients and visitors can generally find parking in hospital-affiliated lots or nearby public parking facilities. The environment fosters a professional, welcoming, and patient-oriented setting for consultations and follow-up surgical care, emphasizing safety, privacy, and personalized attention.
- Do General Surgeons like Dr. Birch ever specialize further?
- Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Birch may develop particular areas of interest or pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialties. These can include areas like colorectal surgery, breast surgery, endocrine surgery, surgical oncology (cancer surgery), trauma/critical care surgery, vascular surgery, or pediatric surgery. If Dr. Birch has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise him brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Birch do?
- Dr. Birch, 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. Birch?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Birch is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Birch 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. Birch?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Birch doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Birch to assess your condition thoroughly, review any tests, and discuss whether surgery is the most suitable treatment, or if alternative non-operative options should be considered. The final decision is typically made collaboratively between you and Dr. Birch after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- Does Dr. Birch perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Birch 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. Birch whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
10240 KINGSWAY NW, ROYAL ALEXANDRA HOSPITAL
Edmonton, AB T5H 3V9
Clinic Phone: (780) 735-4786
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Birch is a licensed General Surgeon 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 another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Birch for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).
Verify Dr. Birch's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=09778fc5-5441-4736-8c24-f1c23a7a6b92&i=181