About
Dr. Devin Michael Spittel is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Maple Ridge and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Maple Ridge, BC, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Spittel has expertise in 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. Spittel graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 1968 and holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development in surgical practice. His credentials underpin his ability to deliver safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care to his patients.
His professional philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Dr. Spittel is committed to utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery and better outcomes. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and maintains a dedication to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. He provides surgical consultations and care in English, with a focus on delivering compassionate and effective treatment to the Maple Ridge community.
Dr. Devin Spittel provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Spittel addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.
- Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Management ranges from conservative treatment to elective or emergency colectomy.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Surgical management of complications or medically refractory Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Surgical treatment for life-threatening complications of peptic ulcers, such as perforation leading to peritonitis.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Spittel addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Surgical excision of malignant tumors arising from soft tissues (muscle, fat, connective tissue).
- Liver Tumors (Primary or Metastatic - select cases): Part of a comprehensive cancer management strategy.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Devin Spittel is necessary.
- Sigmoidoscopy: Examination of the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) using a flexible or rigid scope.
- Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Surgical removal of benign or malignant skin lesions (e.g., moles, cysts, skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).
- Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Thorough evaluation of patient fitness for surgery and detailed surgical planning.
- Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques or traditional open surgery.
- Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical correction of hernias, where an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin.
- General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general 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. Spittel.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Spittel's primary clinic is located in the heart of Maple Ridge, situated within a modern surgical clinic in the Central Maple Ridge, Haney neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently positioned near Memorial Peace Park, easily accessible via TransLink (Bus, West Coast Express). Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment designed for comfort, privacy, and efficient care. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible, with parking typically available at or near the locations, including dedicated accessible spots. This setting provides a seamless experience for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and follow-up surgical care, ensuring a patient-centered approach in a professional environment.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Spittel?
- Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Spittel varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, whether it was open or laparoscopic, your overall health, and individual healing factors. For minor procedures, recovery might be a few days to a couple of weeks. For more major abdominal surgeries, it could be several weeks to a few months. Dr. Spittel will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Spittel do?
- Dr. Spittel, 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.
- Does Dr. Spittel perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Spittel to offer minimally invasive surgical options, including laparoscopic procedures. This approach can lead to benefits like reduced pain and quicker recovery times for many common surgeries. The suitability of laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific medical condition and individual patient factors, which Dr. Spittel would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Spittel perform?
- Dr. Spittel, 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. Spittel may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Spittel?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Spittel 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. Spittel 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. Spittel ever specialize further?
- Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Spittel 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. Spittel 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.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Spittel?
- You would typically be referred to Dr. Spittel 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.
PO Box 272 Stn Del Ctr
Maple Ridge, BC V2X 7G2
Clinic Phone: (778) 222-6060
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Spittel is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Spittel for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).
Verify Dr. Spittel's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/348040/Spittel%2CDevin