Dr. Karl Leon Darcus – Anesthesiologist | Calgary, AB

As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Karl Leon Darcus plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Calgary, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring high standards of care in accordance with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Darcus provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, focusing on optimizing patient outcomes before, during, and after procedures.

Dr. Darcus graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 2001. He completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology, acquiring the necessary certification and experience to deliver specialized anesthetic care. His training emphasizes safety, precision, and patient-centered approaches tailored to individual needs.

His clinical philosophy centers on clear and educational communication, prioritizing patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative journey. Based in Calgary, Dr. Darcus is committed to maintaining the highest standards of practice and patient care. He speaks English fluently, ensuring effective communication with his diverse patient population.

• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Darcus (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. Darcus primarily practices at medical facilities located in the NE neighborhoods of Calgary, including Falconridge, Coral Springs, and Castleridge. These facilities are conveniently situated near North Hill Centre and connect easily via NW and SW routes. Accessibility is enhanced through Calgary Transit options such as the CTrain LRT, buses, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Darcus? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Darcus during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. Darcus for my anesthesia?

While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Darcus from the team covering your procedure.

How do my existing health conditions (e.g., heart problems, asthma, sleep apnea) affect anesthesia?

Existing health conditions are a key part of the pre-anesthetic assessment. Dr. Darcus needs to know about all conditions like heart disease, lung problems (asthma, COPD, sleep apnea), diabetes, kidney disease, etc. This information allows he to choose the safest anesthetic drugs and techniques, anticipate potential issues, and optimize monitoring during your procedure. For example, adjustments might be made for sleep apnea or specific cardiac monitoring used for heart conditions.

What is the role of an Anesthesiologist?

An Anesthesiologist is a specialist medical doctor (physician) extensively trained in anesthesiology, critical care medicine, and pain management. They are responsible for developing the anesthesia plan, administering anesthetic drugs, ensuring your safety and vital functions (like breathing, heart rate, blood pressure) are stable during a procedure, managing any medical emergencies that arise, and overseeing your immediate recovery and pain control afterwards.

3500 26 Ave NE, Peter Lougheed Centre
Calgary, AB T1Y 6J4

Phone: (403) 943-5554 | Fax: (403) 943-4474

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Darcus is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=8469d7ce-29b0-4b42-bc2d-e5d27ff04139&i=342