Dr. Gregory A. Abelseth – Orthopedic Surgeon | Calgary, AB

Dr. Gregory A. Abelseth is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Calgary, AB, Dr. Abelseth is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Abelseth is licensed by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in AB. As a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, Dr. Abelseth is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. The goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical means. Dr. Abelseth serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care.

Dr. Gregory A. Abelseth earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from Uofc - University Of Calgary, graduating in 1988. Subsequently, Dr. Abelseth completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Abelseth brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Abelseth's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Abelseth is committed to ongoing professional development and staying at the forefront of orthopedic advancements to offer the best possible care to patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Abelseth's surgical practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care; a focus on restoring function and mobility, aiming to help patients return to their desired activities as safely and quickly as possible; a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient. Dr. Abelseth provides consultations in English.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Gregory A. Abelseth diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Procedures such as debridement or bursectomy when indicated.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Surgical correction of fractures that have failed to heal (nonunion) or have healed in an incorrect position (malunion).
• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Operative treatment to remove infected bone and tissue.

Traumatic Injuries

• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Advanced surgical management for high-energy trauma affecting the musculoskeletal system.
• Fractures (Broken Bones): Treating all types of bone fractures in adults and children, from simple breaks requiring casting to complex injuries needing surgical fixation.

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Treating bone death caused by a loss of blood supply, commonly affecting the hip, knee, or shoulder, which can lead to joint collapse.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Addressing the musculoskeletal consequences of autoimmune joint diseases in collaboration with rheumatologists.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, which may be surgical or non-surgical, are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Abelseth, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (Musculoskeletal): Integrating imaging findings with clinical assessment to guide treatment decisions.
• Hip Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Expertise in various surgical approaches and implant choices for hip replacement.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Exploring all appropriate non-operative avenues before considering surgery.
• Total Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Comprehensive care for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty, from pre-operative planning to post-operative rehabilitation.
• Complex Fracture and Trauma Surgery: Specialized surgical treatment for severe fractures, multiple injuries, pelvic and acetabular fractures, and post-traumatic complications like nonunions or malunions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Abelseth. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any procedure or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation.

All surgical and non-surgical treatments by Dr. Gregory A. Abelseth adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in AB and the standards of The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

At Dr. Gregory A. Abelseth's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Abelseth frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The journey from their fingers getting stuck in a bent position (trigger finger) to wellness often involves Dr. Abelseth's dedicated care. The milestone is a clear diagnosis and understanding of their musculoskeletal condition, which opens the door back to activities such as sleeping through the night without joint pain waking them up.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed chronic pain in a joint that hasn't responded to other treatments with Dr. Abelseth's dedicated support and surgical expertise. This often leads directly to improved hand or foot function for daily activities and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy participating in family vacations and outings that involve walking once more.
• Overcoming or effectively managing their knee pain getting so bad they can barely walk or climb stairs is a common journey for patients under Dr. Abelseth's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling successful healing of their broken bone (fracture), so that daily routines and pleasures like confidently navigating uneven surfaces or terrain become more manageable again.

Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Abelseth, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Abelseth is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Abelseth's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Calgary, is situated in the Downtown West End, Eau Claire neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Connects North/South and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Details on parking can be provided when you book your consultation.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Abelseth do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Abelseth is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage a wide range of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. While they are surgeons, Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy) to treat patients. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Abelseth?

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery performed (e.g., arthroscopy vs. joint replacement vs. fracture fixation), the specific joint or bone involved, the patient's age and overall health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Some minor procedures may have a recovery of a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months for full recovery and return to all activities. Dr. Abelseth will discuss the expected recovery timeline for a specific procedure during the pre-operative consultation.

How does Dr. Abelseth treat broken bones (fractures)?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Abelseth are experts in treating all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and then immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace to allow it to heal. Surgical treatment might be necessary for more complex fractures, open fractures (where the bone breaks the skin), or fractures that are unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation (using plates, screws, rods, or pins to hold the bone pieces together) or external fixation (using a frame outside the body connected to pins in the bone). Dr. Abelseth will determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the bone heals correctly and function is restored.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Abelseth recommend it?

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like the hip, knee, or shoulder) are removed and replaced with artificial components (prostheses) made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. Dr. Abelseth might recommend joint replacement if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function, typically due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments (like medication, injections, physiotherapy) are no longer providing adequate relief. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Abelseth at the clinic?

The first visit will typically involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the specific problem (e.g., pain, injury, loss of function), how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities and quality of life. Dr. Abelseth will review any previous treatments and will perform a thorough physical examination of the affected area(s), assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Abelseth will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, working with the patient to establish goals.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Abelseth covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP))?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Abelseth are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging ordered is also usually covered. However, some specific items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. It's always best for patients to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

335-401 9 Ave SW
Calgary, AB, T2P 3C5

Phone: (403) 221-4314

Dr. Gregory A. Abelseth is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in AB, regulated by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

License Number: 010218

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=145e6752-910c-42df-8cfc-99a008c039dc&i=9

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Abelseth. Dr. Abelseth and the team are dedicated to providing expert orthopedic care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.