Dr. John Paul Thompson – Orthopedic Surgeon | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. John Paul Thompson is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in North Vancouver, BC, Dr. Thompson is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Thompson is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in BC. Dr. Thompson serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care as a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. The goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical means.

Dr. John Paul Thompson earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 1981. Subsequently, Dr. Thompson completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Thompson brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Thompson's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Thompson is committed to ongoing professional development and staying at the forefront of orthopedic advancements to offer the best possible care to patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Thompson's surgical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment decisions are made collaboratively with the patient's goals and lifestyle in mind; a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care. Dr. Thompson provides consultations in English.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. John Paul Thompson diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Addressing the musculoskeletal consequences of autoimmune joint diseases in collaboration with rheumatologists.
• Osteoarthritis: Managing joint pain, stiffness, and loss of function caused by wear-and-tear arthritis affecting joints like the hip, knee, shoulder, hand, or spine.
• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Treating bone death caused by a loss of blood supply, commonly affecting the hip, knee, or shoulder, which can lead to joint collapse.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Operative treatment to remove infected bone and tissue.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Reconstructive procedures to promote bone healing and restore proper alignment.

Traumatic Injuries

• Dislocations: Treatment for acute joint instability caused by traumatic displacement of articular surfaces.
• Sprains and Strains: Diagnosing and treating ligament sprains (stretching or tearing of ligaments) and muscle/tendon strains (injuries to muscles or tendons).
• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.
• Fractures (Broken Bones): Treating all types of bone fractures in adults and children, from simple breaks requiring casting to complex injuries needing surgical fixation.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, which may be surgical or non-surgical, are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Thompson, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: Thorough assessment of musculoskeletal conditions, including detailed history, physical examination, review of imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), and discussion of treatment options.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Surgical treatment for common bone, joint, and soft tissue disorders as per established orthopedic principles.
• Therapeutic Joint and Soft Tissue Injections: Utilizing image guidance (e.g., ultrasound) for precise injection placement when necessary.
• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Comprehensive care for bone fractures, including closed reduction and casting, as well as surgical fixation with plates, screws, rods, or external fixators.
• Total Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Performing primary and revision hip, knee, and shoulder replacement surgeries to relieve pain and restore function in patients with advanced arthritis or joint damage.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Thompson. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any procedure or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation.

All surgical and non-surgical treatments by Dr. John Paul Thompson adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. John Paul Thompson's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Thompson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss a recent ankle sprain that isn't getting better, Dr. Thompson outlines a path to correction of a deformity (e.g., bunion, scoliosis, clubfoot), aiming to restore not just musculoskeletal health but also the ability to comfortably hiking, running, or cycling again.
• Through Dr. Thompson's skilled guidance and modern surgical techniques, patients suffering from trouble with their Achilles tendon making it painful to walk or run often find they can readily achieve a safe return to work after an injury and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like gardening, doing housework, or performing yard work.
• Understanding the frustration chronic pain in a joint that hasn't responded to other treatments can cause, Dr. Thompson tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve learning strategies to prevent re-injury or manage their chronic condition, allowing for renewed participation in activities like enjoying hobbies that require fine motor skills or physical activity.

Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Thompson, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Thompson is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Thompson's orthopedic clinic in North Vancouver is situated in a central location within the North Vancouver neighborhood of North Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near local healthcare facilities and community services and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Details on parking can be provided when you book your consultation.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Thompson at the clinic?

The first visit will typically involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the specific problem (e.g., pain, injury, loss of function), how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities and quality of life. Dr. Thompson will review any previous treatments and will perform a thorough physical examination of the affected area(s), assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Thompson will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, working with the patient to establish goals.

How does Dr. Thompson treat broken bones (fractures)?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Thompson are experts in treating all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and then immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace to allow it to heal. Surgical treatment might be necessary for more complex fractures, open fractures (where the bone breaks the skin), or fractures that are unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation (using plates, screws, rods, or pins to hold the bone pieces together) or external fixation (using a frame outside the body connected to pins in the bone). Dr. Thompson will determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the bone heals correctly and function is restored.

Do I typically need a referral to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Thompson?

Yes, in BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist (e.g., sports medicine physician, rheumatologist) is generally required to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Thompson for consultations and potential surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Thompson has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Thompson covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Thompson are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging ordered is also usually covered. However, some specific items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. It's always best to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with your private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

How is an Orthopedic Surgeon different from a Rheumatologist or a Physiatrist?

While all three specialties deal with musculoskeletal issues, their primary approaches differ. Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Thompson are surgical specialists who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems with both surgical and non-surgical methods, performing operations when necessary (e.g., joint replacements, fracture fixation). Rheumatologists are medical specialists who primarily diagnose and manage non-surgical inflammatory and autoimmune conditions affecting joints, muscles, and bones, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and gout, often using medications. Physiatrists (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialists) focus on optimizing function and quality of life through primarily non-surgical means, comprehensive rehabilitation planning, and managing disabilities across a spectrum of conditions, including musculoskeletal and neurological issues. They often coordinate multidisciplinary care involving therapists.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Thompson do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Thompson is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage a wide range of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. While they are surgeons, Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy) to treat patients. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Thompson?

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery performed (e.g., arthroscopy vs. joint replacement vs. fracture fixation), the specific joint or bone involved, the patient's age and overall health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Some minor procedures may have a recovery of a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months for full recovery and return to all activities. Dr. Thompson will discuss the expected recovery timeline for a specific procedure during the pre-operative consultation.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Thompson recommend it?

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like the hip, knee, or shoulder) are removed and replaced with artificial components (prostheses) made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. Dr. Thompson might recommend joint replacement if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function, typically due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments (like medication, injections, physiotherapy) are no longer providing adequate relief. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

214-145 15 St W
North Vancouver, BC, V7M 1R9

Phone: (604) 980-0883

Dr. John Paul Thompson is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 9091

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/352282/Thompson%2CJohn

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Thompson. Dr. Thompson and the team are dedicated to providing expert orthopedic care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.