Dr. Glen Alexander Vajcner – General Surgeon | Red Deer, AB

Dr. Glen Alexander Vajcner is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Red Deer and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Red Deer, AB, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). He has expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. He performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. His approach 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.

Dr. Vajcner graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Manitoba in 2006. He holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon and has completed extensive post-graduate training. He has obtained the necessary certifications to practice as a General Surgeon in Alberta, including licensure through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

His professional philosophy centers around providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He is committed to a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Dr. Vajcner utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and reduced postoperative discomfort. He collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. Additionally, he communicates effectively in French and English, enabling him to serve a diverse patient population in Red Deer.

Dr. Glen Vajcner provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Vajcner addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.

• Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Inflammation or infection in one or more small pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract, usually the colon.
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): Surgical intervention for severe or persistent bleeding from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract that is not controllable by endoscopic means.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Emergency surgery to repair perforated ulcers or control massive bleeding.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Vajcner addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.

• Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Procedures may include colectomy, rectal resection, and lymph node dissection.
• Pancreatic Cancer (when resectable): Distal pancreatectomy for tumors in the body or tail of the pancreas.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Glen Vajcner is necessary.

• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and return to normal activities post-surgery.
• Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Consultations to help patients make informed decisions about their surgical care.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible camera.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Thorough evaluation of patient fitness for surgery and detailed surgical planning.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A less extensive examination compared to a full colonoscopy.
• Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Minimally invasive approaches for procedures like cholecystectomy, appendectomy, hernia repair, and colectomy, often resulting in less pain and faster recovery.

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. Vajcner.

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. Vajcner’s primary clinic is located at a dedicated surgical facility in North Red Deer, situated in the neighborhoods of Normandeau and Highland Green. The clinic is easily accessible from the nearby Exhibition Grounds area and is serviced by Red Deer Transit, providing convenient transportation options. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy, ensuring a professional environment for consultations and post-surgical follow-up care. Parking is typically available at or near the hospital and clinic locations, with designated accessible spots for patients with mobility needs. The practice offers a welcoming environment focused on patient safety and quality care.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Vajcner perform?

Dr. Vajcner, a General Surgeon, performs a wide range of surgeries. These frequently involve organs in the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, appendix, stomach, and intestines. They also address hernias, conditions of the breast, thyroid gland, and skin/soft tissue masses. Depending on the condition and patient, Dr. Vajcner may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.

What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Vajcner?

Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Vajcner 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. Vajcner will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.

When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Vajcner?

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Vajcner is usually made by your family doctor or another specialist when a condition is suspected or diagnosed that may require surgical evaluation or treatment. This could include persistent abdominal pain, a new lump or mass (e.g., in the breast or skin), symptoms of gallbladder disease, a hernia, signs of appendicitis, or concerns about colorectal conditions. They also manage conditions initially identified through screening, like colon polyps or early-stage breast cancer.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Vajcner ever specialize further?

Indeed. After completing general surgery residency, surgeons can opt for further fellowship training to subspecialize. Dr. Vajcner, as a General Surgeon, has a wide scope of practice, but some general surgeons focus more on specific areas like vascular surgery, pediatric surgery (if they have dual certification or focus), or cancer surgery (surgical oncology). General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions. This allows them to offer highly specialized care within those fields while maintaining their broad general surgical skills.

Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Vajcner?

Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Vajcner 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. Vajcner will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.

Does Dr. Vajcner perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?

It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Vajcner 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. Vajcner would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.

3942 50A Ave
Red Deer, AB T4N 4E7

Clinic Phone: (403) 343-4420

The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.

Dr. Vajcner is a licensed General 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. Vajcner for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).

Verify Dr. Vajcner's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=76076833-f755-49ee-9a21-1d17234a714b&i=1480