Dr. Keith Alan Stothers – Orthopedic Surgeon | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Keith Alan Stothers is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Stothers is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Stothers 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. Stothers 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. Keith Alan Stothers earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 1987. Subsequently, Dr. Stothers completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Stothers brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Stothers's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Stothers 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. Stothers's surgical practice philosophy include: providing clear explanations of conditions and treatment options to empower patients in their healthcare journey; a patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment decisions are made collaboratively with the patient's goals and lifestyle in mind. Dr. Stothers provides consultations in English.

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

Sports Injuries

• Meniscus Tears: Treating a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms.
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.
• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Specialized care for common sports-related ligamentous injuries.

Traumatic Injuries

• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Advanced surgical management for high-energy trauma affecting the musculoskeletal system.
• Sprains and Strains: Diagnosing and treating ligament sprains (stretching or tearing of ligaments) and muscle/tendon strains (injuries to muscles or tendons).

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Addressing the musculoskeletal consequences of autoimmune joint diseases in collaboration with rheumatologists.
• 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.
• 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.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Procedures such as debridement or bursectomy when indicated.
• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Operative treatment to remove infected bone and tissue.

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. Stothers, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Performing total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for conditions like osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and complex fractures.
• Therapeutic Joint and Soft Tissue Injections: Administering injections such as corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation), or local anesthetics into joints or soft tissues to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Comprehensive non-surgical management strategies to alleviate pain, improve function, and promote healing.
• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Managing all types of fractures, from simple to complex, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Offering operative solutions for orthopedic problems when conservative measures are insufficient.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Stothers. 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. Keith Alan Stothers 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 St. Paul's Hospital, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Stothers frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If a torn ACL or meniscus in their knee from a sports injury has unfortunately put participating in family vacations and outings that involve walking on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Stothers works closely with patients towards attaining correction of a deformity (e.g., bunion, scoliosis, clubfoot), effectively helping them regain their previous level of physical function and confidence.
• Managing their knee pain getting so bad they can barely walk or climb stairs effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Stothers and the medical team. The clear aim is always a successful arthroscopic repair of a torn ligament or cartilage, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying hiking, running, or cycling again and their daily routines without severe physical hindrance.
• Patients presenting with their fingers getting stuck in a bent position (trigger finger) can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of successful healing of their broken bone (fracture) under Dr. Stothers's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume getting in and out of a car or chair without difficulty without the former limitations or discomfort.

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

Dr. Stothers practices at St. Paul's Hospital, located in the Downtown Vancouver (Central Business District, Granville) neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Gastown Historic District and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Please inquire about parking options if you have mobility concerns.

What are some common conditions an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Stothers treats?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Stothers treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Some common examples include fractures (broken bones), osteoarthritis (particularly affecting the hip, knee, and shoulder), sports injuries (such as ACL tears, rotator cuff tears, and meniscus tears), carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis or bursitis. Dr. Stothers addresses many musculoskeletal problems, aiming to restore function and reduce pain.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Stothers do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon, such as Dr. Stothers, is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of injuries and diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system — bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage various conditions, including fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. Orthopedic Surgeons utilize both surgical (joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical (medication, injections, bracing, physiotherapy) methods, aiming to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Stothers at St. Paul's Hospital?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, the problem (pain, injury, loss of function), its onset, aggravating/relieving factors, and its impact on daily life. Dr. Stothers will review prior treatments, perform a physical examination, and review any imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans). Based on this,  Dr. Stothers will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline treatment options (surgical and non-surgical), collaborating with you to establish goals.

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

Most consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Stothers are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, given a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging is usually covered as well. However, some items (certain braces, custom orthotics, advanced injections) may not be fully covered or may incur additional fees. Inquire with St. Paul's Hospital about potential out-of-pocket costs and check your private insurance coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Recovery time varies significantly depending on the surgery (arthroscopy vs. joint replacement vs. fracture fixation), the joint/bone involved, the patient's age and health, and adherence to the rehabilitation plan. Minor procedures may take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months for full recovery. Dr. Stothers will discuss the expected timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

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

Joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) involves removing damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (hip, knee, shoulder) and replacing them with artificial components (prostheses). Dr. Stothers may recommend it if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or significant injury, and non-surgical treatments are inadequate. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

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

In BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally needed to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Stothers for consultations and surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans. This ensures the consultation is appropriate and Dr. Stothers has the necessary medical information. Speak with your primary care physician if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

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

Dr. Stothers treats fractures based on the type and severity, location, and patient health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace. Surgical treatment (internal or external fixation) might be needed for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting. Dr. Stothers will determine the most appropriate treatment for correct healing and functional restoration.

St. Paul's Hospital
221-181 Keefer Pl
Vancouver, BC, V6B 6C1

Phone: (778) 945-6756

Dr. Keith Alan Stothers 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: 23502

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/305771/Stothers%2CKeith

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Stothers. Dr. Stothers 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.