Dr. Faizal Kassam

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Faizal Kassam diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

Sports Injuries

• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Diagnosing and treating tears of major ligaments in the knee (ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL), shoulder (rotator cuff, labrum), ankle, and elbow, often requiring surgical repair or reconstruction.
• Meniscus Tears: Managing tears of the meniscus (cartilage pads in the knee) through conservative treatment or arthroscopic surgery (repair or meniscectomy).
• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Surgical and non-surgical management of acute tendon ruptures and chronic tendinopathies.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Reconstructive procedures to promote bone healing and restore proper alignment.
• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Surgical management for chronic or severe cases of tendon inflammation (tendonitis) or bursa inflammation (bursitis) unresponsive to conservative care.

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Interventions may include core decompression or joint replacement depending on the stage.
• Osteoarthritis: Managing joint pain, stiffness, and loss of function caused by wear-and-tear arthritis affecting joints like the hip, knee, shoulder, hand, or spine.

Traumatic Injuries

• Dislocations: Managing joint dislocations where bones are forced out of their normal position, often requiring reduction and immobilization.
• Fractures (Broken Bones): Treating all types of bone fractures in adults and children, from simple breaks requiring casting to complex injuries needing surgical fixation.
• Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.
• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Advanced surgical management for high-energy trauma affecting the musculoskeletal system.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, which may be surgical or non-surgical, are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Kassam, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Expert treatment of broken bones in adults and children, aiming for optimal healing and functional recovery.
• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: In-depth consultation to determine the cause of musculoskeletal pain, instability, or dysfunction and to develop a personalized care plan.
• Complex Fracture and Trauma Surgery: Reconstructive surgery for severe bone and joint injuries.
• Knee Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Surgical replacement of the knee joint, including total knee arthroplasty and unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement, for severe arthritis or injury.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Offering operative solutions for orthopedic problems when conservative measures are insufficient.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Kassam. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any procedure or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation.

All surgical and non-surgical treatments by Dr. Faizal Kassam adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At St. Michael's Hospital, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Kassam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Managing chronic pain in a joint that hasn't responded to other treatments effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Kassam and the medical team. The clear aim is always regaining strength and function after an injury or surgery, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying opening jars or turning doorknobs without difficulty (for hand issues) and their daily routines without severe physical hindrance.
• The path to improved musculoskeletal wellness, especially when facing trouble with their Achilles tendon making it painful to walk or run, involves working systematically towards a successful arthroscopic repair of a torn ligament or cartilage. Dr. Kassam expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including standing for longer periods without discomfort.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of needing a joint replacement because of severe arthritis, Dr. Kassam offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach a safe return to work after an injury. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of participating in fitness classes or going to the gym.

Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Kassam, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Kassam is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Kassam's practice is located at St. Michael's Hospital in the Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood of Kingston. The clinic is conveniently located near Waterfront Hotels and is accessible via Kingston Transit. Patient parking, including accessible spots, is typically available.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kassam do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kassam is a medical doctor (physician) specializing in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage a wide range of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy). Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Kassam?

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery, the specific joint or bone, the patient's age and health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Some minor procedures may take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months. Dr. Kassam will discuss the expected recovery timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

How does Dr. Kassam treat broken bones (fractures)?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Kassam treat all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone and immobilizing it with a cast or brace. Surgical treatment might involve internal fixation (plates, screws) or external fixation (a frame outside the body). Dr. Kassam determines the most appropriate treatment.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kassam covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP))?

Most consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kassam are typically covered by provincial health plans such as OHIP in ON, with a valid health card and referral. Diagnostic imaging is usually covered. However, some items like certain braces or injections may not be fully covered. Inquire with St. Michael's Hospital about potential out-of-pocket costs and check private insurance coverage.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Kassam recommend it?

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, replaces damaged parts of a joint with artificial components. Dr. Kassam might recommend it if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function due to advanced arthritis or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments are inadequate. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Kassam at St. Michael's Hospital?

The first visit involves a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment, including a discussion of medical history, the problem, and its impact on daily life. Dr. Kassam will perform a physical examination and review any prior imaging. Based on this, Dr. Kassam will discuss diagnostic impressions, potential investigations, and treatment options.

Do I typically need a referral to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kassam?

Yes, in ON, a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is generally required to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kassam for consultations and surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like OHIP. This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and Dr. Kassam has the necessary medical information. Speak with your primary care physician if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

St. Michael's Hospital
Unit 4-002 Shuter Wing, 76 Stuart St, 4-002 Shuter Wing
Kingston, ON, K7L 2V7

Phone: (613) 549-6666

Dr. Faizal Kassam is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in ON, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 100459

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Kassam-Faizal/0288522-100459

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Kassam. Dr. Kassam and the team are dedicated to providing expert orthopedic care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.