Dr. Jean Francois Michel Oosthuizen – General Surgeon | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Jean Francois Michel Oosthuizen is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Kelowna and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Kelowna, BC, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that all procedures meet strict professional and ethical guidelines. Dr. Oosthuizen has extensive 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 characterized by a commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality, patient-centered care, guiding patients through every step from initial consultation to post-operative recovery. The surgical practice is dedicated to creating a professional, welcoming environment designed to prioritize patient comfort, privacy, and accessibility.

He holds a Medical Degree from the University of Pretoria in South Africa and is fully certified as a General Surgeon. His credentials include certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, as well as certification in the College of Family Physicians of Canada. These qualifications reflect his comprehensive training and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of surgical practice and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Oosthuizen’s professional philosophy centers on delivering safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He emphasizes open communication, shared decision-making, and utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote faster recovery and better outcomes. He collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive management of each patient’s condition. His dedication to surgical excellence and continuous learning underscores his goal to provide exceptional care for the residents of Kelowna, all while communicating fluently in English to ensure clear understanding and comfort for his patients.

Dr. Jean Oosthuizen provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

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

• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice.
• Appendicitis: If untreated, can lead to rupture and peritonitis.
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): An emergency situation requiring rapid diagnosis and treatment.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

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

• Liver Tumors (Primary or Metastatic - select cases): Part of a comprehensive cancer management strategy.
• Breast Cancer: Part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan including radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: May involve partial or total removal of the stomach and regional lymph nodes.

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

• Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Surgical removal of benign or malignant skin lesions (e.g., moles, cysts, skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).
• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Examination of the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) using a flexible or rigid scope.
• Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): May involve open or laparoscopic approaches, with potential for anastomosis (reconnection) or ostomy creation.
• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Providing follow-up appointments to assess healing and long-term outcomes.
• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques or traditional open surgery.

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. Oosthuizen.

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. Oosthuizen practices primarily at a well-equipped surgical clinic located in the vibrant neighborhood of Rutland, Black Mountain in Kelowna. The clinic features modern facilities designed to ensure patient comfort and privacy, with easy access for all patients, including wheelchair accessibility. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals that adhere to strict safety and quality standards. The practice is conveniently situated near Kelowna International Airport (YLW) Access, with easy transportation options available via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Patients often find accessible parking options near the clinic, facilitating a seamless experience for consultations, follow-up visits, and pre- and post-operative care. The environment fosters a professional, caring, and patient-oriented approach, providing a comfortable setting for all surgical needs.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Oosthuizen do?

Dr. Oosthuizen, a General Surgeon, is a specialist surgeon who manages a wide variety of common and complex surgical problems. General surgeons are often the primary surgical contact for conditions involving the digestive tract, abdominal organs, hernias, breast diseases, and skin/soft tissue lesions. They are trained in numerous surgical techniques, including minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery, and play a critical role in both planned (elective) operations and emergency surgical situations.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Oosthuizen perform?

Dr. Oosthuizen, 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. Oosthuizen 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. Oosthuizen?

You would typically be referred to Dr. Oosthuizen 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. Oosthuizen?

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

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

Many General Surgeons like Dr. Oosthuizen 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. Oosthuizen whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Oosthuizen ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Oosthuizen 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. Oosthuizen 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.

5671 Anderson Rd
Kelowna, BC V1X 7V4

Clinic Phone: (250) 267-1549

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

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

Verify Dr. Oosthuizen's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/313593/Oosthuizen%2CJean