About
Dr. Ephrem Gebrechristos is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at London Health Sciences Centre and performing surgeries at Humber River Hospital in North York, ON, he is a respected member of the surgical community. Adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), he is committed to delivering high-quality surgical care. He 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 a high standard of patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, employing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.
Dr. Gebrechristos graduated with a Medical Degree from Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia. With over 30 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1994, he has accumulated extensive clinical expertise. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), which underscores his qualifications and commitment to maintaining professional standards. Throughout his career, he has continually updated his skills and knowledge to incorporate the latest advancements in surgical practice, ensuring optimal outcomes for his patients.
His professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. Dr. Gebrechristos emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making with his patients. He utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery and reduce surgical trauma. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, he offers comprehensive management tailored to individual patient needs. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence, serving the diverse community of North York. Fluent in English, Amharic, and Tigrigna, he effectively communicates with patients from various backgrounds, ensuring they are well-informed and comfortable throughout their surgical journey.
Dr. Ephrem Gebrechristos provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Gebrechristos addresses a range of disorders affecting organs within the abdomen, including the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and colon.
- Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits; severe cases may require surgery.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Surgical management of complications or medically refractory Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Gebrechristos addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Surgical excision of malignant tumors arising from soft tissues (muscle, fat, connective tissue).
- 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. Ephrem Gebrechristos is necessary.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
- Sigmoidoscopy: Often used for screening for colorectal cancer or investigating symptoms related to the lower bowel.
- Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
- 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.
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and return to normal activities post-surgery.
- Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Procedure to visualize the upper digestive tract directly.
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. Gebrechristos.
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. Ephrem Gebrechristos's primary clinic is located at a reputable medical clinic in North York, conveniently situated near major healthcare facilities. His practice is easily accessible via local public transit routes, with ample parking options including accessible parking facilities nearby. Surgical procedures are typically performed at Humber River Hospital, a modern facility equipped to handle a wide range of surgical interventions. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients benefit from a professional, welcoming environment for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and follow-up care. The location is committed to providing a seamless, patient-centered experience in a safe and supportive setting.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Gebrechristos?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Gebrechristos doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Gebrechristos 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. Gebrechristos after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Gebrechristos?
- You would typically be referred to Dr. Gebrechristos 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 types of surgical procedures does Dr. Gebrechristos perform?
- Dr. Gebrechristos, 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. Gebrechristos may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.
- Does Dr. Gebrechristos perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Gebrechristos 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. Gebrechristos whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Gebrechristos?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Gebrechristos is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Gebrechristos 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 General Surgeons like Dr. Gebrechristos ever specialize further?
- Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Gebrechristos 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. Gebrechristos 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.
London Health Sciences Centre
A10-026, 201-2221 Keele St
North York, ON M6M 3Z5
Clinic Phone: (416) 241-2441 | Clinic Fax: (416) 241-3830
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Gebrechristos 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. Gebrechristos for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).
Verify Dr. Gebrechristos's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Gebrechristos-Ephrem/0045940-59918