Dr. Karl Tyko Henrik Huttunen – Anesthesiologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Karl Tyko Henrik Huttunen, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at facilities in Vancouver, BC, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout all phases of anesthesia. Adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), Dr. Huttunen prioritizes individualized, patient-centered care. His focus includes a comprehensive approach to anesthesia, emphasizing safety and reassurance for all patients requiring anesthesia for surgical or medical procedures.

Dr. Huttunen graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2001 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. His certifications include advanced training in perioperative medicine, regional anesthesia techniques, and patient safety protocols, ensuring he remains current with the latest practices and innovations in anesthesia care.

With a calm and reassuring approach, Dr. Huttunen is dedicated to fostering a sense of trust and confidence among his patients. He is committed to patient safety in Vancouver, speaking fluent English. His clinical philosophy revolves around meticulous attention to detail, clear communication, and compassionate care, making each patient’s experience as comfortable and smooth as possible.

• Pre-Anesthetic Assessment and Consultation: Thorough evaluation of patient health, medical history, medications, and surgical/procedural plan to create the safest and most effective anesthesia plan.
• Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• Acute Postoperative Pain Management: Implementing strategies to manage pain immediately after surgery, utilizing multimodal approaches like regional blocks, IV medications, or patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).
• Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Huttunen (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 British Columbia (CPSBC).

Dr. Huttunen primarily practices at medical facilities located in the vibrant Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver. These facilities are conveniently situated near Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) and the Commercial Corridor, making them easily accessible for patients. The location is well-connected via TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express at Waterfront Station. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenience for those arriving by car.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Huttunen? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Huttunen during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. Huttunen 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. Huttunen from the team covering your procedure.

What happens in the recovery room (PACU)?

After your procedure under general or regional anesthesia/sedation, you will be taken to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), also known as the recovery room. Specially trained nurses will closely monitor your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and level of consciousness as you wake up. They will also manage any immediate pain or nausea under the guidance of the anesthesia team.

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. Huttunen 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.

Do Anesthesiologists only work in the operating room?

While the OR is central, Anesthesiologists like Dr. Huttunen often work in other areas too, including:

• Labour and delivery suites (providing epidurals)
• Intensive Care Units (managing critically ill patients)
• Pre-operative assessment clinics
• Pain clinics (treating chronic pain)
• Procedure rooms (e.g., endoscopy, radiology, cardiology)

His specific areas of practice will depend on his training and hospital/clinic roles.

Room 2449-910 10 Ave W, Dept. of Anesthesia - JPP2N, Vancouver General Hospital
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E3

Phone: (604) 875-4304 | Fax: (604) 875-5209

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Huttunen is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/326495/Huttunen%2CKarl