Dr. Donald Ernest DuVall – Anesthesiologist | St Catharines, ON

As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Donald Ernest DuVall plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in St Catharines, ON, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a focus on delivering calm and reassuring care. Dr. DuVall adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring every patient receives personalized and safe anesthetic management. He provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, emphasizing patient well-being before, during, and after procedures.

Dr. DuVall graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 1982 and has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology for over 38 years since 1986. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his dedication to maintaining high standards of clinical excellence and ongoing professional development in his field.

With a calm and reassuring approach, Dr. DuVall is committed to patient safety in St. Catharines. He speaks English fluently and emphasizes clear communication and compassionate care to help patients feel at ease throughout their surgical journey.

• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
• Pre-Anesthetic Assessment and Consultation: Thorough evaluation of patient health, medical history, medications, and surgical/procedural plan to create the safest and most effective anesthesia plan.
• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• Acute Postoperative Pain Management: Implementing strategies to manage pain immediately after surgery, utilizing multimodal approaches like regional blocks, IV medications, or patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. DuVall (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Dr. DuVall practices primarily at medical facilities located near the central neighborhood of St Catharines, Ontario. These facilities are conveniently situated close to local points of interest such as the St. Catharines General Hospital and the Welland Canal, making access straightforward for patients. The locations are well served by public transit, ensuring ease of travel for those using buses and other forms of transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive environment for all patients. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. DuVall? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. DuVall during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. DuVall for my anesthesia?

While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. DuVall from the team covering your procedure.

What is the role of an Anesthesiologist?

An Anesthesiologist is a specialist medical doctor (physician) extensively trained in anesthesiology, critical care medicine, and pain management. They are responsible for developing the anesthesia plan, administering anesthetic drugs, ensuring your safety and vital functions (like breathing, heart rate, blood pressure) are stable during a procedure, managing any medical emergencies that arise, and overseeing your immediate recovery and pain control afterwards.

What about nausea and vomiting after anesthesia?

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) can occur, but Anesthesiologists like Dr. DuVall use strategies to prevent it, especially for patients at higher risk. This may include specific anesthetic techniques, administering anti-nausea medications before, during, or after the procedure, and ensuring adequate hydration. If you do experience nausea, effective treatments are available in the recovery room.

What are the main types of anesthesia you might use?

Dr. DuVall selects the safest and most appropriate anesthetic based on your health and the procedure. Options include:

• General Anesthesia: You'll be completely unconscious and unaware.
• Regional Anesthesia: A specific body part is numbed (e.g., spinal/epidural for lower body, nerve block for arm/leg). You might be awake or sedated.
• Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC)/Sedation: Medication helps you relax and feel drowsy, often used with local anesthetic by the surgeon.

The choice will be discussed with you beforehand.

1200 Fourth Avenue
St Catharines, ON L2S 0A9

Phone: (905) 378-4647

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. DuVall is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/DuVall-Donald-Ernest/0036591-50567