Dr. David Gerald Smith – General Surgeon | Oshawa, ON

Dr. David Gerald Smith is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Oshawa and performing surgeries at Lakeridge Health Hospital in Oshawa, ON, he is a respected member of the surgical community. He adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His role and focus include 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, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.

Dr. Smith graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada. With over 34 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1990, he has established a reputation for surgical excellence and patient care. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring his adherence to the highest standards of surgical practice and professionalism.

His professional philosophy is rooted in providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. Dr. Smith is committed to a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. He utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive management of complex cases. Dedicated to ongoing professional development, Dr. Smith strives to deliver surgical excellence for patients in Oshawa. He provides surgical consultations and care in English, ensuring accessibility and clarity for his patients.

Dr. David Smith provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Smith addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.

• Bowel Obstruction (Small or Large Intestine): Blockage that prevents food or liquid from passing through the small intestine or large intestine (colon).
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Part of a multidisciplinary approach to managing IBD.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Smith addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.

• Breast Cancer: Often involves sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection to assess cancer spread.
• Liver Tumors (Primary or Metastatic - select cases): Requires specialized hepatobiliary surgical expertise.
• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: May involve partial or total removal of the stomach and regional lymph nodes.

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

• Sigmoidoscopy: A less extensive examination compared to a full colonoscopy.
• Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Frequently performed laparoscopically for faster recovery.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
• Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Minimally invasive approaches for procedures like cholecystectomy, appendectomy, hernia repair, and colectomy, often resulting in less pain and faster recovery.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Optimizing patient health before elective surgical procedures.

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. Smith.

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. Smith practices at a reputable surgical clinic situated in the Vanier neighborhood of Oshawa, conveniently accessible and equipped with modern facilities. The clinic is located near the Legends Centre, with easy access via Durham Region Transit (DRT). Surgical procedures are typically performed at Lakeridge Health Hospital, which is situated nearby, offering state-of-the-art surgical suites and inpatient care. Parking is generally available at or near the hospital and clinic locations, with designated accessible parking spots for patients with mobility needs. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. This setting provides a professional and patient-oriented environment suitable for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and follow-up surgical care, ensuring a seamless experience from initial visit to recovery.

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

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

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Smith perform?

Dr. Smith, a General Surgeon, performs a wide range of surgeries. These frequently involve organs in the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, appendix, stomach, and intestines. They also address hernias, conditions of the breast, thyroid gland, and skin/soft tissue masses. Depending on the condition and patient, Dr. Smith may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.

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

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

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

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Smith ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Smith 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. Smith 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.

Unit A Suite C01, 1 Hospital Ct
Oshawa, ON L1G 2B9

Clinic Phone: (905) 576-8711

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

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

Verify Dr. Smith's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Smith-David-Gerald/0041700-55676