Dr. Joel J. Gagnon – Vascular Surgeon / Phlebologist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Joel J. Gagnon is a highly skilled Vascular Surgeon, dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the vascular system (arteries, veins, and lymphatic circulation). His practice is based at a specialized vascular clinic in New Westminster, where he provides expert outpatient care in a patient-centered environment. Dr. Gagnon performs complex vascular surgical procedures at affiliated major hospitals in New Westminster, ensuring access to advanced facilities and comprehensive care. Adhering to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), he is committed to delivering safe, effective, and personalized vascular treatments. He, as a Vascular Surgeon, combines expertise in general surgery with specialized skills in managing vascular diseases, including arterial and venous conditions. This includes treating common surgical issues as well as complex arterial blockages, aneurysms, and venous disorders. His practice emphasizes the use of minimally invasive endovascular techniques and traditional open surgery to achieve optimal outcomes for his patients, in a professional and approachable manner.

Dr. Gagnon graduated with his MD from Université de Sherbrooke in 1999 and holds specialty certification as a Vascular Surgeon. He has obtained certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his advanced training and commitment to excellence in vascular care. His ongoing education and professional development ensure that he remains current with the latest innovations and best practices in vascular surgery and endovascular interventions.

His professional philosophy centers on providing state-of-the-art vascular care with a focus on patient safety and outcomes. Dr. Gagnon adopts a patient-centered approach, involving patients in understanding their vascular conditions and treatment options. He utilizes the least invasive yet effective techniques tailored to each patient's specific vascular problem, whether through minimally invasive procedures or open surgery. Collaborating closely with referring physicians and other specialists, he ensures comprehensive management of vascular diseases. Dedicated to ongoing learning and the application of the latest advancements in vascular and endovascular surgery, Dr. Gagnon is committed to improving vascular health for his patients in New Westminster. He also communicates effectively in French, in addition to English, to serve a diverse patient population.

Dr. Joel Gagnon provides expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide spectrum of vascular conditions, including:

Arterial Occlusive and Stenotic Diseases

Dr. Gagnon treats disorders of the arteries causing reduced blood circulation due to plaque buildup or other forms of obstruction.

• Renal Artery Stenosis: Intervention (angioplasty/stenting or surgery) considered for significant stenosis with clinical impact.
• Carotid Artery Stenosis / Carotid Artery Disease: Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, which supply blood to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke.
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) / Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD): Often caused by atherosclerosis, significantly impacting mobility and limb viability if untreated.

Aortic and Other Arterial Aneurysmal Diseases

Dr. Gagnon’s management focuses on monitoring smaller aneurysms and intervening to repair larger or symptomatic ones to prevent catastrophic bleeding.

• Peripheral Artery Aneurysms (e.g., Popliteal, Femoral): Can lead to thrombosis (clotting), embolization (clots traveling downstream), or rupture.
• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): Often asymptomatic and detected incidentally; screening is recommended for at-risk individuals (e.g., older male smokers).
• Aortic Dissection: A serious condition in which the inner layer of the aorta tears, causing blood to flow between the layers of the aortic wall, forcing the layers apart.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your vascular health, a consultation with Dr. Joel Gagnon is necessary.

• Pre-operative Evaluation for Vascular Surgery: Detailed planning of complex vascular interventions, including imaging review and discussion of surgical approaches.
• Varicose Vein Treatment (Minimally Invasive and Surgical): Comprehensive management of varicose veins, including endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and sclerotherapy.
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Management - Surgical & Endovascular: Minimally invasive endovascular procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy for PAD.
• Mesenteric Ischemia Treatment: Emergency management of acute bowel ischemia.
• Upper Extremity Arterial Disease Management: Surgical bypass or endovascular therapy for conditions like subclavian steal syndrome or upper extremity claudication.
• Renal Artery Stenosis Treatment: Surgical bypass for complex renal artery disease.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific procedures are determined after thorough consultation with Dr. Gagnon.

All vascular surgical and endovascular 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 Society for Vascular Surgery (CSVS) guidelines and best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Gagnon's primary clinic is located at a specialized vascular clinic in the Uptown neighborhood of New Westminster, BC. The clinic offers a professional, accessible environment designed for patient comfort and privacy. It is conveniently situated near Royal City Centre Mall, with accessible transit options including TransLink services such as the SkyTrain Expo Line and local buses. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible, with parking typically available at or near the locations, including designated accessible spots. Patients can expect a welcoming setting for consultation, diagnostic testing, and post-procedure follow-up. Complex surgical procedures are performed at major hospitals in New Westminster, equipped with advanced surgical suites and critical care support. The environment emphasizes safety, efficiency, and patient-centered care, ensuring a seamless experience for those seeking vascular services in the region.

What is the typical recovery after vascular surgery or an endovascular procedure by Dr. Gagnon?

The recovery period after a vascular intervention with Dr. Gagnon depends heavily on whether it's an open surgery or an endovascular (minimally invasive) procedure. Endovascular treatments usually mean a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to normal activities. Open surgeries, such as an open aortic aneurysm repair, are more extensive and require a longer convalescence. Dr. Gagnon will discuss your specific expected recovery timeline.

What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Gagnon?

Dr. Gagnon treats a wide range of vascular disorders. Common conditions include Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), which causes blockages in leg arteries; Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA); Carotid Artery Disease, which can lead to stroke; Varicose Veins and chronic venous insufficiency; and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Dr. Gagnon also specializes in creating and maintaining access for hemodialysis.

What is the difference between endovascular and open surgery, and does Dr. Gagnon perform both?

Open surgery involves making a traditional incision to directly access and repair the affected blood vessel (e.g., bypass grafting, aneurysm repair with a sewn-in graft). Endovascular surgery is minimally invasive, performed through small punctures in an artery (usually in the groin) using catheters, wires, balloons, and stents guided by imaging. Many Vascular Surgeons like Dr. Gagnon are skilled in both approaches and will recommend the best option based on your specific condition, anatomy, and overall health. You should discuss this with Dr. Gagnon.

When should I be referred to a Vascular Surgeon like Dr. Gagnon?

You might be referred to Dr. Gagnon if you experience issues like leg pain or cramping with exercise that resolves with rest (claudication), coldness or numbness in your limbs, visible varicose veins causing discomfort or skin changes, or if an imaging study reveals an aneurysm or significant blockage in your arteries. Any concerns about circulation in your arteries or veins, or problems with a dialysis fistula or graft, warrant consultation with a vascular specialist.

What does a Vascular Surgeon like Dr. Gagnon specialize in?

A Vascular Surgeon, such as Dr. Gagnon, is a highly trained specialist who diagnoses, treats, and manages conditions affecting the arteries, veins, and lymphatic system – collectively known as the vascular system. This excludes vessels of the heart and brain, which are typically managed by cardiologists/cardiac surgeons and neurologists/neurosurgeons respectively. Dr. Gagnon is skilled in a range of treatments including medical management, minimally invasive endovascular procedures, and open surgical reconstructions. A Vascular Surgeon, specializing in the diagnosis and comprehensive management of diseases affecting the arteries, veins, and lymphatic system, utilizing medical, endovascular, and open surgical techniques.

a specialized vascular clinic in New Westminster
208-301 Columbia St E, Unit
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W5

Clinic Phone: (604) 524-9144 | Clinic Fax: (604) 549-5815

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

Dr. Gagnon is a licensed Vascular 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. Gagnon for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).

Verify Dr. Gagnon's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/328507/Gagnon%2CJoel