About
Dr. Gary A.J. Gelfand is a skilled General and Thoracic Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Calgary and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Calgary, AB, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Gelfand has advanced expertise in Thoracic Surgery, treating conditions of the lungs, esophagus, and chest wall, including cancers and benign diseases, alongside a general surgery practice. The clinic's environment is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach to ensure optimal outcomes for his patients.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 1984 and has completed extensive post-graduate training. Dr. Gelfand holds the necessary certifications to practice as a General and Thoracic Surgeon in Alberta, including specialty certification and licensure through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures that he remains at the forefront of surgical advances and best practices.
Dr. Gelfand’s professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making with his patients. Whenever possible, he utilizes minimally invasive techniques to enhance recovery and minimize discomfort. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, Dr. Gelfand is dedicated to delivering comprehensive and personalized surgical management. His ongoing dedication to surgical excellence aims to optimize health outcomes for patients in Calgary. He provides surgical consultations and care in English.
Dr. Gary Gelfand provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Vascular Conditions (General Surgeon Scope or Vascular Subspecialty)
Dr. Gelfand addresses surgical and endovascular treatment of conditions like peripheral artery disease, aneurysms, and varicose veins.
- Varicose Veins and Chronic Venous Insufficiency - select treatments: Options can include lifestyle changes, compression therapy, sclerotherapy, or surgical vein stripping/ablation.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) - screening/referral/select repairs: Screening programs exist for at-risk populations.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) - select cases: Surgical bypass or endovascular interventions for blockages in the arteries of the legs, causing pain or non-healing ulcers.
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Gelfand addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): May involve resection of the bleeding source or oversewing of ulcers.
- Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Inflammation or infection in one or more small pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract, usually the colon.
- Bowel Obstruction (Small or Large Intestine): Can be caused by adhesions, hernias, tumors, or inflammatory bowel disease.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Gary Gelfand is necessary.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Advanced surgical techniques requiring specialized training and equipment.
- Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Surgical removal of benign or malignant skin lesions (e.g., moles, cysts, skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands (typically for hyperparathyroidism).
- Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): Performed for conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), or bowel obstruction.
- Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical correction of hernias, where an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin.
- General Surgical Consultation: Comprehensive assessment and consultation for a wide range of surgical conditions.
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. Gelfand.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Gelfand's primary clinic is located at a reputable surgical clinic in Calgary, situated in the NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighbourhood. The clinic is conveniently accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT) and is close to historic buildings, making it easy for patients to reach. The facility is fully wheelchair accessible and designed to prioritize patient comfort and privacy. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals that meet the highest standards of safety and care. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Parking options are usually available nearby, including accessible parking for those with mobility needs.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Gelfand?
- Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Gelfand varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, whether it was open or laparoscopic, your overall health, and individual healing factors. For minor procedures, recovery might be a few days to a couple of weeks. For more major abdominal surgeries, it could be several weeks to a few months. Dr. Gelfand will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Gelfand do?
- Dr. Gelfand, a General and Thoracic 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.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Gelfand perform?
- As a General and Thoracic Surgeon, Dr. Gelfand is skilled in a variety of surgical procedures. Common operations include appendectomies (appendix removal), cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal), hernia repairs, bowel resections (for conditions like cancer or diverticulitis), thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and surgeries for breast conditions. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques, which often lead to quicker recovery. The specific procedures offered depend on Dr. Gelfand's areas of focus within general surgery.
- Does Dr. Gelfand perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Gelfand 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. Gelfand would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Gelfand?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Gelfand 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. Gelfand will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Gelfand?
- You would typically be referred to Dr. Gelfand 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.
1403 29 St NW, Rm G33
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9
Clinic Phone: (403) 944-4268 | Clinic Fax: (403) 270-8431
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Gelfand is a licensed General and Thoracic Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Gelfand for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).
Verify Dr. Gelfand's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=a8a9d676-d14a-4c79-ac09-802db240cc1f&i=507