Dr. Janelle Rekman – General Surgeon | Chilliwack, BC

Dr. Janelle Rekman is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Chilliwack and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Chilliwack, BC, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). She 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. The surgical 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. Rekman graduated with her Medical Degree from the University of Western Ontario in 2011. She holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon and is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her ongoing commitment to professional development ensures she remains current with the latest surgical advances and best practices in patient care.

Her professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. She prioritizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Dr. Rekman is dedicated to utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and reduced postoperative discomfort. She collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive management for her patients and is committed to ongoing surgical excellence. She provides surgical consultations and postoperative care primarily in English, with a focus on compassionate, individualized treatment.

Dr. Janelle Rekman provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Rekman addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.

• Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Inflammation or infection in one or more small pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract, usually the colon.
• Bowel Obstruction (Small or Large Intestine): Blockage that prevents food or liquid from passing through the small intestine or large intestine (colon).
• Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Protrusion of an organ or tissue through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Rekman 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): Procedures may include colectomy, rectal resection, and lymph node dissection.
• Pancreatic Cancer (when resectable): Surgery is an option for a subset of patients with localized disease.

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

• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
• Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
• Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Excision of lumps and bumps (soft tissue masses) for diagnosis and treatment.
• General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Providing follow-up appointments to assess healing and long-term outcomes.
• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical correction of hernias, where an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin.

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. Rekman.

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. Rekman's primary clinic is located in a modern surgical facility in Chilliwack's Chilliwack Downtown, Central neighborhood. The clinic offers a welcoming and professional environment for consultations and follow-up care. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals, ensuring access to comprehensive surgical and support services. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. The location is conveniently situated near the Chilliwack Cultural Centre and is accessible via the Chilliwack/Agassiz-Harrison Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking options, including accessible parking, are usually available nearby, making visits convenient for patients.

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

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Rekman is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Rekman 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.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Rekman ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Rekman 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. Rekman has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise her brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Rekman do?

A General Surgeon, such as Dr. Rekman, is a highly trained physician specializing in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of a broad range of diseases affecting various parts of the body. Their expertise commonly includes conditions of the abdomen (e.g., appendix, gallbladder, intestines, stomach), breast, skin, soft tissues, and endocrine system (e.g., thyroid). They perform both elective and emergency surgeries and are skilled in pre-operative, operative, and post-operative patient care. As a General Surgeon, Dr. Rekman provides comprehensive surgical management.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Rekman perform?

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

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

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

207-9181 Main St
Chilliwack, BC V2P 4M9

Clinic Phone: (604) 792-1556

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

Dr. Rekman 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. Rekman for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).

Verify Dr. Rekman's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/383422/Rekman%2CJanelle