Dr. Fredric Gordon Saibil is a dedicated Gastroenterologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of disorders affecting the digestive system in adult patients, and may also see older adolescents for certain conditions. Practicing at a reputable gastroenterology clinic or hospital department in Toronto, ON, he is a key member of the local medical community. Dr. Saibil adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His role focuses on providing comprehensive care for a broad spectrum of digestive system disorders, including conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas, utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy techniques. The practice is dedicated to delivering patient-centered digestive health care within a supportive environment, emphasizing accuracy, safety, and personalized treatment plans.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in Canada. With over 51 years of experience as a Gastroenterologist since 1973, Dr. Saibil has developed extensive expertise in the field. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring his practice aligns with the highest standards of medical excellence and ethical practice.
Dr. Saibil is committed to evidence-based digestive health care, emphasizing patient education regarding GI conditions and lifestyle modifications. He believes in early and accurate diagnosis through the use of advanced diagnostic procedures, facilitating effective and personalized treatment strategies. Fluent in both English and French, he dedicates himself to serving the diverse patient community in Toronto, ensuring clear communication and compassionate care.
Dr. Fredric Saibil diagnoses and treats a wide range of digestive system disorders, including:
Esophageal, Stomach & Upper GI Disorders
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE): A chronic immune system disease characterized by a buildup of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the esophagus, causing inflammation, difficulty swallowing, food impaction, and chest pain.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) / Acid Reflux / Heartburn: Chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and potential complications like esophagitis.
- Hiatal Hernia & Paraesophageal Hernia: Condition where part of the stomach pushes upward through an opening (hiatus) in the diaphragm into the chest, potentially contributing to GERD and other symptoms.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Focus
- Microscopic Colitis (often considered alongside IBD for chronic diarrhea): Though distinct from classic IBD, it's an inflammatory condition of the colon diagnosed by biopsy, causing chronic watery diarrhea.
- Ulcerative Colitis (Proctitis, Left-sided Colitis, Pancolitis): A chronic inflammatory condition that causes inflammation and ulcers primarily in the lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum), typically presenting with bloody diarrhea, urgency, and abdominal pain.
Small & Large Intestine (Colorectal) Disorders
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - All Subtypes (IBS-D, IBS-C, IBS-M, IBS-U): A common functional gastrointestinal disorder affecting the large intestine, causing symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or mixed).
- Ischemic Colitis: Inflammation and injury of the large intestine that results from inadequate blood flow.
- Diverticular Disease (Diverticulosis, Diverticulitis, Diverticular Bleeding): Diverticulosis is the presence of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall. Diverticulitis is inflammation or infection of these pouches. Diverticular bleeding can also occur.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific digestive condition, please consult with Dr. Fredric Saibil.
- Biofeedback Therapy Coordination for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction & Fecal Incontinence: Evaluation for defecatory disorders and fecal incontinence, with coordination of biofeedback therapy and other interventions to improve pelvic floor muscle function.
- Endoscopic Hemostasis for Acute & Chronic GI Bleeding: Various endoscopic techniques (e.g., injection therapy, thermal coagulation/APC, mechanical clips, hemostatic sprays) used to stop acute or recurrent bleeding from ulcers, varices, angiodysplasias, or tumors in the GI tract.
- Colonoscopy (Screening, Diagnostic, Surveillance) & Polypectomy: Comprehensive examination of the entire colon (large intestine) using a colonoscope to detect and remove precancerous polyps, screen for and diagnose colorectal cancer, evaluate symptoms, and diagnose other colonic conditions like colitis or diverticular disease.
- Capsule Endoscopy (Small Bowel & Colon): Non-invasive procedure where the patient swallows a vitamin-pill sized camera that takes pictures of the small intestine (for obscure GI bleeding, Crohn's disease) or colon (as an alternative to colonoscopy in select cases).
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Comprehensive Diagnosis & Management (including subtypes IBS-D, IBS-C, IBS-M): Multifaceted approach to managing IBS symptoms (abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, mixed pattern) including thorough exclusion of other conditions, dietary modifications (e.g., low FODMAP diet), lifestyle changes, stress management, and targeted medications.
- Interpretation & Correlation of Advanced Digestive Health Diagnostic Tests: Expert analysis and clinical correlation of results from endoscopies, biopsies, imaging studies (CT, MRI, MRCP, ultrasound), breath tests (e.g., for H. pylori, SIBO, lactose intolerance), stool tests (e.g., calprotectin, FIT), motility studies, and genetic testing for GI conditions.
- Enteroscopy (e.g., Double-Balloon, Single-Balloon, Spiral Enteroscopy): Advanced endoscopic techniques allowing deep visualization, biopsy, and therapy within the small intestine, beyond the reach of standard endoscopes, for conditions like obscure bleeding or small bowel tumors.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific procedures and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Saibil for care relevant to your specific condition.
All medical and surgical services (if applicable) are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant gastroenterological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Saibil practices within a well-equipped gastroenterology clinic or hospital department located in Toronto's Lawrence Park neighborhood. The facility is situated conveniently near the Art Gallery of Ontario, providing an accessible environment for patients. Public transit options including TTC subway, streetcar, and bus services are readily available, making it easy for patients to reach the location. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for individuals with mobility challenges. Ample parking is available nearby, with metered street parking and parking lots providing options for patients arriving by car, facilitating a seamless visit for all.
- Are consultations and procedures like endoscopies with Dr. Saibil, a Gastroenterologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Gastroenterologist like Dr. Saibil, as well as most diagnostic procedures (e.g., endoscopies for investigating symptoms, biopsies for medical reasons) and treatments for provincially insured digestive conditions (e.g., IBD, celiac disease, screening colonoscopies as per provincial guidelines, liver disease management), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Procedures considered purely for screening outside of guidelines, or for non-medical reasons, and some advanced technologies or specific drug therapies might have different coverage. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed treatment or procedure with Dr. Saibil's office, the hospital/clinic's financial services, or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) beforehand.
- Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Saibil, a Gastroenterologist?
- Yes, in nearly all cases, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (such as an internist or surgeon) is required to schedule an appointment with a Gastroenterologist like Dr. Saibil for services covered by the provincial health plan. Gastroenterological issues often require initial assessment and preliminary investigations by your primary care provider. The referral ensures that a specialist consultation is appropriate, helps with prioritizing appointments, and facilitates coordinated care, including the transfer of relevant medical information.
- What are common reasons someone would be referred to a Gastroenterologist like Dr. Saibil?
- Referral to a Gastroenterologist like Dr. Saibil is common for various reasons, including: persistent heartburn or acid reflux (GERD); difficulty or pain when swallowing; unexplained abdominal pain or bloating; chronic nausea or vomiting; significant changes in bowel habits (e.g., chronic diarrhea, severe constipation); blood in the stool or rectal bleeding; iron deficiency anemia with no obvious cause; suspected or diagnosed Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis); Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) not responding to initial management; celiac disease; abnormal liver function tests or suspected liver disease (like hepatitis or fatty liver); pancreatitis; or for screening and surveillance colonoscopies to prevent colorectal cancer, especially if there's a family history or personal history of polyps.
- Are there significant risks associated with procedures like gastroscopy or colonoscopy?
- Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) and colonoscopy are generally very safe procedures, especially when performed by an experienced Gastroenterologist like Dr. Saibil. Complications are uncommon. Potential risks can include bleeding, particularly if polyps are removed or biopsies are taken; perforation (a tear in the wall of the digestive tract); infection (rare); or adverse reactions to the sedative medication used. Before your procedure, Dr. Saibil will thoroughly discuss the specific potential risks and benefits based on your individual health and the reason for the procedure, allowing you to make an informed decision.
- What's the difference between Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)? Can Dr. Saibil diagnose and treat both?
- Yes, a Gastroenterologist like Dr. Saibil can diagnose and treat both IBS and IBD, but they are very different conditions. IBD, which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is characterized by chronic inflammation and physical damage (like ulcers and strictures) to the digestive tract, visible during endoscopy and on biopsies. It's an autoimmune-related condition. IBS, on the other hand, is a functional gut disorder, meaning the GI tract doesn't work correctly, but there's no visible inflammation or damage on standard tests. IBS causes symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. While IBS can significantly impact quality of life, it doesn't cause the destructive inflammation seen in IBD. Diagnosis involves different criteria and investigations for each.
2075 Bayview Avenue
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5
Phone: (416) 480-4727 | Fax: (416) 480-5977
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Saibil is a licensed Gastroenterologist 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 appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Saibil for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Saibil-Fredric-Gordon/0019922-24710