About
Specializing in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Gerrit Viljoen (an ENT Doctor) provides expert medical and surgical solutions for patients in Lethbridge. Practicing at a clinic setting in the Downtown Lethbridge area, he serves the local community with a focus on compassionate, patient-centered care. Dr. Viljoen adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality treatment and safety for all patients.
He completed his medical degree (MB ChB) in 2013 in South Africa and has since undergone extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. His education and certification process involved rigorous clinical training, ensuring he is well-equipped to diagnose and manage a wide array of ENT conditions.
Dr. Viljoen is committed to providing thorough patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. He speaks English fluently and strives to offer accessible, high-quality ENT care in Lethbridge, focusing on the unique needs of each patient and fostering a trusting doctor-patient relationship.
Dr. Gerrit Viljoen manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:
Common Ear Conditions
- Eardrum Perforation (Ruptured Eardrum): A hole or tear in the tympanic membrane (eardrum), which can result from infection, injury, or pressure changes.
- Presbycusis (Age-Related Hearing Loss): Gradual loss of hearing that occurs in many people as they grow older.
- Otosclerosis (Abnormal Bone Growth in Middle Ear): A condition where abnormal bone remodeling in the middle ear, typically involving the stapes bone, causes progressive conductive hearing loss.
- Tinnitus (Ringing or Buzzing in the Ears): Perception of noise, such as ringing, buzzing, or hissing, in the ears or head when no external sound is present.
This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Gerrit Viljoen or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.
- Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.
- Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.
- Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
- Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Viljoen offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Viljoen's areas of focus.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). A referral may be required.
Dr. Viljoen's practice is primarily based at a reputable clinic in Downtown Lethbridge, situated near Nicholas Sheran Park and the University of Lethbridge. The location offers easy access via Lethbridge Transit, making it convenient for patients from various parts of the city. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing added convenience for those arriving by car.
- Are services from Dr. Viljoen, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Viljoen are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the clinic if you have questions.
- Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Viljoen, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?
- Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Viljoen. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.
- How can Dr. Viljoen help with snoring and sleep apnea?
- Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are often caused by an obstruction or narrowing of the airway in the nose or throat. Dr. Viljoen, an ENT specialist, can perform a thorough examination to identify the areas of obstruction (e.g., deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, large tongue base, elongated soft palate). Depending on the findings, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (weight loss, positional therapy), CPAP therapy (often managed by a sleep physician), oral appliances, or surgical procedures aimed at improving airway patency. Examples include septoplasty, tonsillectomy, UPPP, or Inspire therapy in select cases.
- How are allergies related to ENT problems?
- Allergies can significantly impact the ears, nose, and throat. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Allergies can also contribute to chronic sinusitis, eustachian tube dysfunction (leading to ear pressure, popping, or fluid), recurrent ear infections, and exacerbate conditions like asthma or voice changes. An ENT specialist may investigate and help manage the ENT-related symptoms of allergies, often by recommending nasal sprays, antihistamines, or discussing options like immunotherapy, sometimes working in conjunction with an allergist.
- When should I consider seeing an ENT specialist?
- You might consider seeing an ENT specialist if you experience persistent issues such as chronic ear infections, hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness or balance problems, chronic sinusitis or nasal congestion, recurrent nosebleeds, allergies affecting the upper airway, voice changes or hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, snoring or suspected sleep apnea, or lumps in the neck or head region. Your family doctor can help determine if a referral to an ENT like Dr. Viljoen is appropriate.
507 6 AVE S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 4N6
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Viljoen is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=19995d7e-4279-4464-8b7e-ac52d328970e&i=1502