Dr. Jessica Abraham is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Medicine Hat and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Medicine Hat, AB, she is a respected member of the surgical community. She adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Her role encompasses 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.
Dr. Abraham graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 1998. She holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon and maintains certifications including Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in General Surgery. Her training and credentials reflect her commitment to surgical excellence and ongoing professional development.
With a professional philosophy rooted in patient safety, evidence-based practice, and clear communication, Dr. Abraham is dedicated to delivering optimal surgical outcomes. She emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring shared decision-making and utilizing minimally invasive techniques when appropriate to promote swift recovery. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, she strives to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Dr. Abraham is committed to ongoing education and surgical innovation to serve the residents of Medicine Hat with the highest standards of surgical excellence. She provides surgical consultations and care in English.
Dr. Jessica Abraham provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Abraham 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): Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is a common treatment.
- Appendicitis: If untreated, can lead to rupture and peritonitis.
- Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits; severe cases may require surgery.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Abraham addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.
- Liver Tumors (Primary or Metastatic - select cases): Part of a comprehensive cancer management strategy.
- 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. Jessica Abraham is necessary.
- Sigmoidoscopy: Examination of the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) using a flexible or rigid scope.
- 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): Advanced surgical techniques requiring specialized training and equipment.
- Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Procedure to visualize the upper digestive tract directly.
- Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): May involve open or laparoscopic approaches, with potential for anastomosis (reconnection) or ostomy creation.
- Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Excision of lumps and bumps (soft tissue masses) for diagnosis and treatment.
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. Abraham.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Abraham practices primarily at a well-equipped surgical clinic located in the heart of Medicine Hat's Downtown Medicine Hat, SE Hill, River Flats neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated close to the Commercial Corridor, with easy access via Medicine Hat Transit and ample parking options, including designated accessible spots. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals, which are equipped with modern facilities. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to prioritize patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. The location provides a straightforward pathway for patients seeking comprehensive surgical management in a community-focused setting.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Abraham?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Abraham doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Abraham 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. Abraham after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Abraham?
- Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Abraham 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. Abraham will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.
- Do General Surgeons like Dr. Abraham ever specialize further?
- Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Abraham 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. Abraham 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. Abraham do?
- Dr. Abraham, 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.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Abraham?
- You would typically be referred to Dr. Abraham 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.
- Does Dr. Abraham perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Abraham 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. Abraham whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
334-770 6 St SW
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 4J6
Clinic Phone: (403) 487-2100 | Clinic Fax: (403) 648-3759
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Abraham is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Abraham for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).
Verify Dr. Abraham's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=5bec2aff-5dc1-4c60-9442-7930cd3b4152&i=13