Dr. Kathryn Marie Lanuke – General Surgeon | Comox, BC

Dr. Kathryn Marie Lanuke is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Comox and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Comox, BC, she is a respected member of the surgical community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that her practice aligns with the latest surgical guidelines and patient safety protocols. Her focus is on providing personalized, compassionate care, addressing a wide spectrum of surgical conditions with expertise and professionalism. The practice is dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.

Dr. Lanuke graduated with her MD from the University of Alberta in 2005 and holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon. She maintains certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in surgical practice. Her training and credentials enable her to offer a broad scope of surgical services with confidence and precision, always prioritizing patient safety and optimal outcomes.

Her professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. She emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making with each individual. Dr. Lanuke utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to enhance recovery and minimize discomfort. She collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care and is dedicated to continuous learning and surgical innovation. Her goal is to deliver compassionate, expert surgical care to the community in Comox, always aiming to improve her patients' health and well-being.

Dr. Kathryn Lanuke provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Lanuke addresses a range of disorders affecting organs within the abdomen, including the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and colon.

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): May involve resection of the bleeding source or oversewing of ulcers.
• Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Protrusion of an organ or tissue through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Lanuke addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.

• Breast Cancer: Surgical treatment options including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast).
• Thyroid Cancer and other Endocrine Tumors: Management of other endocrine tumors such as parathyroid adenomas or adrenal tumors.
• Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Procedures may include colectomy, rectal resection, and lymph node dissection.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Kathryn Lanuke is necessary.

• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical correction of hernias, where an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Optimizing patient health before elective surgical procedures.
• Colonoscopy: An important procedure for preventing and detecting colon cancer.
• Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
• Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Includes breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), removal of the entire breast (mastectomy), and diagnostic biopsies.
• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques or traditional open surgery.

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. Lanuke.

All surgical 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 Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Lanuke's primary practice is located within a well-equipped surgical clinic in the heart of Comox, BC. The clinic is situated in a convenient neighborhood close to major healthcare facilities, making it easily accessible for patients from the surrounding communities. The clinic features modern consultation rooms designed for patient comfort and privacy, with friendly staff dedicated to providing personalized care. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated hospitals in Comox that are equipped with state-of-the-art operating theatres. The facility is wheelchair accessible and offers accessible parking options, including nearby parking spaces for patients with mobility needs. The location is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring ease of travel for all patients. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and follow-up care, all aimed at supporting their health and recovery journey.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Lanuke perform?

Dr. Lanuke, a General Surgeon, performs a wide range of surgeries. These frequently involve organs in the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, appendix, stomach, and intestines. They also address hernias, conditions of the breast, thyroid gland, and skin/soft tissue masses. Depending on the condition and patient, Dr. Lanuke may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.

Does Dr. Lanuke perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?

It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Lanuke to offer minimally invasive surgical options, including laparoscopic procedures. This approach can lead to benefits like reduced pain and quicker recovery times for many common surgeries. The suitability of laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific medical condition and individual patient factors, which Dr. Lanuke would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.

Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Lanuke?

A surgical consultation with Dr. Lanuke doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Lanuke 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. Lanuke after weighing the potential risks and benefits.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Lanuke do?

Dr. Lanuke, 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.

What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Lanuke?

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Lanuke is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Lanuke will discuss the expected recovery process, including hospital stay (if any), return to work, and activity restrictions, as part of your pre-operative consultation and post-operative care plan.

101-1723 Comox Ave
Comox, BC V9M 3M1

Clinic Phone: (250) 792-3534 | Clinic Fax: (236) 269-2090

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

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

Verify Dr. Lanuke's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/332844/Lanuke%2CKathryn