Dr. George Vrabec – Urologist | Abbotsford, BC

Dr. George Vrabec is a dedicated Urologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract in men and women, and the male reproductive system. Practicing at a urology clinic within a hospital department in Abbotsford, BC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Vrabec provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urological issues, including kidney stones, prostate conditions, bladder problems, and male reproductive health concerns. His focus is on delivering patient-centered, evidence-based urological care utilizing advanced diagnostic and minimally invasive treatment techniques.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Urologist. Dr. Vrabec has earned certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards of urological practice. His qualifications ensure that patients receive care that is both current and tailored to their specific health needs.

Dr. Vrabec’s clinical philosophy is centered on providing compassionate, patient-focused urological care. He is committed to utilizing the latest evidence-based practices and minimally invasive techniques where appropriate, ensuring effective and comfortable treatment experiences. He emphasizes thorough patient education and shared decision-making, aiming to empower his patients in Abbotsford to make informed choices regarding their urinary and reproductive health. Dr. Vrabec offers his services exclusively in English, with a dedication to serving his community with integrity and professionalism.

Dr. George Vrabec addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:

Female Pelvic Health & Urinary Conditions

• Urge Urinary Incontinence / Overactive Bladder: Sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary loss of urine.
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Cystocele - Bladder Prolapse): When the bladder drops (prolapses) from its normal position in the pelvis and pushes on the wall of the vagina.
• Urethral Syndrome / Chronic Urethritis: Symptoms of urethral irritation or inflammation without evidence of bacterial infection.

Prostate & Male Genital Conditions

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) / Enlarged Prostate: Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, common in aging men, causing urinary symptoms.
• Testicular Pain, Masses & Swelling (e.g., Epididymitis, Orchitis, Hydrocele, Varicocele, Testicular Torsion): Various conditions causing discomfort or changes in the testicles or scrotum, requiring urological evaluation.

Urologic Cancers

• Testicular Cancer: Cancer that develops in the testicles, a part of the male reproductive system, most common in young men.
• Ureteral & Renal Pelvis Cancer: Cancers that form in the urothelial cells lining the ureters (tubes connecting kidneys to bladder) or renal pelvis (funnel-like part of kidney).
• Bladder Cancer: Cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, most commonly in the urothelial cells lining the inside of the bladder.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. George Vrabec.

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) / Enlarged Prostate Management: Medical and surgical treatments for lower urinary tract symptoms caused by non-cancerous prostate enlargement (e.g., TURP, UroLift, Rezum, medication).
• Laser Surgery for Urological Conditions: Employing various laser technologies for treatments such as BPH (e.g., HoLEP, GreenLight), kidney stones, and bladder tumors.
• Urinalysis & Urine Culture Interpretation: Analysis of urine samples to detect and manage urinary tract infections, kidney disorders, and other urological issues.
• Urethral Conditions in Women (e.g., Urethral Diverticulum, Stricture): Diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the female urethra.
• Interstitial Cystitis / Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) Management: Multimodal approaches to manage chronic bladder pain and discomfort.
• Prostatitis Management (Acute & Chronic): Diagnosis and treatment of prostate inflammation and infection.
• Endoscopic Urological Procedures: Utilizing scopes passed through natural body openings to diagnose and treat conditions within the urinary tract (e.g., stone removal, tumor resection).

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Vrabec for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Vrabec’s practice is situated within a urology clinic in the West Abbotsford, Mount Lehman neighborhood of Abbotsford, BC. The facility is conveniently located on Essendene Ave, easily accessible via public transit provided by the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit). The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, offering convenience for those arriving by private vehicle. The practice provides a welcoming environment with modern facilities designed to deliver comprehensive urological care to adult patients in the region.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Vrabec, a Urologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Vrabec, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer technologies, medications, or elective procedures (like cosmetic urology or certain non-insured infertility treatments) may not be covered or may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Vrabec's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Vrabec, a Urologist?

Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in BC, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Vrabec. This ensures your care is coordinated and appropriate. Some specific services, like vasectomy in certain private clinic settings, might occasionally be accessed directly, but for general urological assessment or provincially insured care, a referral is the standard pathway.

What are kidney stones and how does Dr. Vrabec treat them?

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain when they pass through your urinary tract. Treatment depends on the stone's size, type, and location. Small stones may pass on their own with increased fluid intake and pain medication. Larger stones or those causing significant symptoms might require procedures like Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) to break them up, ureteroscopy with laser to remove or break them, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for very large stones. Dr. Vrabec will also work with you on strategies to prevent future stones.

What is a PSA test and who should have it?

The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a blood test primarily used to screen for prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. The decision to have a PSA test is best made in consultation with your doctor, like Dr. Vrabec, after discussing the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of screening. Factors such as age, family history of prostate cancer, and ethnicity are often considered. It's not a perfect test, as elevated PSA can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions like BPH or prostatitis.

What are some common tests a Urologist might perform or order?

Depending on your symptoms and condition, Dr. Vrabec may perform or order several tests. These can include urinalysis (urine test), urine culture, blood tests (like PSA for prostate health), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI of the kidneys, bladder, or prostate), urodynamic studies (to assess bladder function), and cystoscopy (a scope to look inside the bladder and urethra). He will explain why any specific test is needed and what it involves.

301 - 32615 South Fraser Way
Abbotsford, BC V2T 1X8

Phone: (604) 851-5668 | Fax: (604) 851-5670

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Vrabec is a licensed Urologist 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 is typically required for consultations with Dr. Vrabec for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312788/Vrabec%2CGeorge