Dr. Heather Lynn Thomas is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Cranbrook and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Cranbrook, BC, she is a respected member of the surgical community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Thomas has expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. She performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. Her 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.
She holds medical degrees and certifications that attest to her specialty training and professional competence. Dr. Thomas graduated with her MD from Dalhousie University in 2014 and has attained certification as a General Surgeon through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her ongoing commitment to professional development ensures she remains current with the latest advancements in surgical care and techniques.
Dr. Thomas's professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. She emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Whenever appropriate, she utilizes minimally invasive techniques to promote faster recovery and reduce surgical trauma. She collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to surgical excellence for her patients in Cranbrook. Dr. Thomas provides surgical consultations and care in English, ensuring accessibility and clarity in her communication.
Dr. Heather Thomas provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Thomas addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.
- Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Protrusion of an organ or tissue through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue.
- Appendicitis: If untreated, can lead to rupture and peritonitis.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Thomas addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Surgical excision of malignant tumors arising from soft tissues (muscle, fat, connective tissue).
- Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: May involve partial or total removal of the stomach and regional lymph nodes.
- Breast Cancer: Part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan including radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Heather Thomas is necessary.
- Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): Performed for conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), or bowel obstruction.
- Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical removal of the appendix, typically for acute appendicitis.
- Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Discussing the surgical plan, expected outcomes, and answering patient questions before surgery.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
- Colonoscopy: Diagnostic and screening examination of the entire colon (large intestine) using a flexible camera.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Frequently performed laparoscopically for 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. Thomas.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Thomas practices primarily at a dedicated surgical clinic situated in the heart of Cranbrook, within a modern medical facility that emphasizes patient comfort and privacy. Her clinic is conveniently located near major healthcare facilities, including local hospitals where surgical procedures are performed. The practice location is accessible via local public transit routes, with ample parking available nearby, including designated accessible spots. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a professional, welcoming environment for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and follow-up surgical care. Patients can expect a compassionate and efficient service in a setting dedicated to their health and well-being.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Thomas?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Thomas is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Thomas 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.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Thomas perform?
- Dr. Thomas, 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. Thomas may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Thomas?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas ever specialize further?
- Indeed. After completing general surgery residency, surgeons can opt for further fellowship training to subspecialize. Dr. Thomas, 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.
- Does Dr. Thomas perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Thomas?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.
13 24TH Ave N, East Kootenay Regional Hospital
Cranbrook, BC V1C 3H9
Clinic Phone: (250) 426-5281
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Thomas is a licensed General Surgeon 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 or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Thomas for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).
Verify Dr. Thomas's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/376658/Thomas%2CHeather