Dr. Harry Sander Himal – General Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Harry Sander Himal is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at The Sport Medicine Clinic-Ottawa Un and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Toronto, ON, he is a respected member of the surgical community. Dr. Himal adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His role involves 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 practice 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. Himal graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa, Canada. With over 55 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1969, he brings a wealth of expertise to his practice. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His extensive training and long-standing commitment to surgical excellence underpin his ability to deliver safe, effective, and evidence-based care.

His professional philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Dr. Himal is committed to utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and reduce patient discomfort. He collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care and remains dedicated to ongoing professional development to uphold surgical excellence for patients in Toronto. He provides surgical consultations and ongoing care in English, fostering a supportive environment for his patients.

Dr. Harry Himal provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

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

• Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Emergency surgery to repair perforated ulcers or control massive bleeding.
• Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits; severe cases may require surgery.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Himal addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.

• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: Surgical resection (gastrectomy) as a primary treatment for localized stomach cancer.
• Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) approaches are increasingly used.
• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Often managed in collaboration with sarcoma specialists and oncologists.

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

• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Discussing the surgical plan, expected outcomes, and answering patient questions before surgery.
• General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general surgical procedures.
• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedures to alleviate pain and prevent complications associated with hernias.
• Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
• Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Offering expert second opinions for patients considering general surgical interventions.

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. Himal.

All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Himal's primary clinic is located at The Sport Medicine Clinic-Ottawa Un in Toronto's vibrant Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood. The clinic offers a professional, patient-oriented environment for consultations, evaluations, and follow-up surgical care. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals nearby, which are equipped with modern facilities. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients and visitors can generally find parking in hospital-affiliated lots or nearby public parking facilities. The clinic's central location provides easy access via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), with proximity to landmarks such as the Royal Alexandra Theatre, ensuring convenient access for patients from all parts of Toronto.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Himal perform?

As a General Surgeon, Dr. Himal 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. Himal's areas of focus within general surgery.

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

A surgical consultation with Dr. Himal doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Himal to assess your condition thoroughly, review any tests, and discuss whether surgery is the most suitable treatment, or if alternative non-operative options should be considered. The final decision is typically made collaboratively between you and Dr. Himal after weighing the potential risks and benefits.

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

Many General Surgeons like Dr. Himal are trained in and regularly perform laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery. This technique involves making several small incisions instead of one large one, using a camera and specialized instruments to perform the operation. Laparoscopic approaches are common for procedures like gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and hernia repair, often resulting in less post-operative pain, smaller scars, and a faster return to normal activities. You should discuss with Dr. Himal whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Himal ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Himal may develop particular areas of interest or pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialties. These can include areas like colorectal surgery, breast surgery, endocrine surgery, surgical oncology (cancer surgery), trauma/critical care surgery, vascular surgery, or pediatric surgery. If Dr. Himal has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise him brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.

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

You would typically be referred to Dr. Himal 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.

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

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Himal is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Himal will discuss the expected recovery process, including hospital stay (if any), return to work, and activity restrictions, as part of your pre-operative consultation and post-operative care plan.

The Sport Medicine Clinic-Ottawa Un
123 Edward Street
Toronto, ON M5G 1E2

Clinic Phone: (416) 597-0997

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

Dr. Himal is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Himal for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Himal's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Himal-Harry-Sander/0026597-31420