Description
About Dr. Elena Anna Theodora Vikis
Dr. Elena Anna Theodora Vikis is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in New Westminster and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in New Westminster, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). 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 focused on providing high-quality, patient-centered care, from initial consultation through to postoperative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.
Dr. Vikis graduated with an MD from the University of Manitoba in 2002 and holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon. She is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining the highest standards in surgical practice and professional development. Her credentials reflect her dedication to ongoing learning and excellence in surgical care.
Her professional philosophy emphasizes providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. She is committed to a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Dr. Vikis utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and reduced postoperative discomfort. She collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to offer comprehensive management of her patients’ conditions. Her dedication to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence ensures that patients in New Westminster receive the best possible care. She provides surgical consultations and ongoing care in English, ensuring clear and thorough communication throughout the treatment process.
Surgical Conditions Addressed by Dr. Elena Vikis
Dr. Elena Vikis provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Vikis addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.
- Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Inflammation or infection in one or more small pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract, usually the colon.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): Surgical intervention for severe or persistent bleeding from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract that is not controllable by endoscopic means.
- Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Vikis addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.
- Liver Tumors (Primary or Metastatic - select cases): Part of a comprehensive cancer management strategy.
- Thyroid Cancer and other Endocrine Tumors: Surgical removal of cancerous nodules or the entire thyroid gland (thyroidectomy).
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Elena Vikis is necessary.
Surgical Services Offered by Dr. Elena Anna Theodora Vikis
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
- Colonoscopy: Diagnostic and screening examination of the entire colon (large intestine) using a flexible camera.
- Sigmoidoscopy: Examination of the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) using a flexible or rigid scope.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
- Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical removal of the appendix, typically for acute appendicitis.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Advanced surgical techniques requiring specialized training and equipment.
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. Vikis.
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.
Practice Location & Contact
Dr. Vikis practices at a dedicated surgical clinic located in the vibrant Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Anvil Centre, with easy access via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals in New Westminster, which are equipped with modern facilities. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to prioritize patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment for consultations, preoperative assessments, and follow-up care. Parking is generally available at or near the hospital and clinic locations, with designated accessible parking spots for those with mobility needs. Specific details may vary depending on the facility, but Dr. Vikis ensures a smooth and accessible experience for all patients seeking surgical care.
Frequently Asked Questions about General Surgery
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Vikis perform?
- Dr. Vikis, 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. Vikis 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. Vikis?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Vikis is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Vikis 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.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Vikis?
- You would typically be referred to Dr. Vikis 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 does a General Surgeon like Dr. Vikis do?
- Dr. Vikis, 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. Vikis perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Vikis 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. Vikis would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Vikis?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Vikis 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. Vikis 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. Vikis ever specialize further?
- Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Vikis 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. Vikis has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise her brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.
Clinic & Licensing Information
301 Columbia St E Ste 405
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W5
Clinic Phone: (604) 524-2454 | Clinic Fax: (604) 524-2453
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Vikis 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. Vikis for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).
Verify Dr. Vikis's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/326555/Vikis%2CElena