Dr. Kevin Chia-Wei Wen – Nephrologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Kevin Chia-Wei Wen is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Vancouver in Vancouver, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). As a Nephrologist, he specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers comprehensive care for a wide range of kidney conditions, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.

Dr. Wen graduated with an MD from Queen's University in 2008. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. He is a board-certified Nephrologist with over 11 years of specialized experience since 2013. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring his practice aligns with the highest standards of Canadian medical excellence.

His professional philosophy is centered on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. Dr. Wen is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health and empowering them in shared decision-making. He utilizes evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies to optimize patient outcomes, with a focus on early detection, prevention of progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. Committed to collaborative care, he works closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure holistic patient well-being. All patient communication and care are provided in English, emphasizing clarity and compassion.

Dr. Kevin Wen provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Dr. Wen addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.

• Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Management involves treating the specific kidney injury, supportive care, and sometimes dialysis.
• Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Risk factors include pre-existing CKD, diabetes, and dehydration.
• Pre-renal AKI: Caused by reduced blood flow to the kidneys, often due to severe dehydration, blood loss, heart failure, or sepsis.

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Wen addresses kidneys play a vital role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining electrolyte balance.

• Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Common in hospitalized patients and those with kidney, heart, or liver disease.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Kidneys play a key role in regulating acid-base balance. Disorders can be respiratory or metabolic.
• Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Management involves identifying the cause (e.g., medications, kidney disease, hormonal issues) and correcting the imbalance.

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

Dr. Wen addresses diagnosis often requires a kidney biopsy, and treatment may involve immunosuppressive medications.

• Lupus Nephritis: Regular screening for kidney involvement is crucial for lupus patients.
• Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): One of the common causes of kidney failure.
• Nephritic Syndrome: Characterized by hematuria (blood in urine), hypertension, oliguria (reduced urine output), and some degree of proteinuria and edema.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Kevin Wen is necessary.

• Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Evaluation for underlying causes of recurrent kidney stones.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure, particularly resistant or secondary hypertension linked to kidney problems.
• Management of Dialysis Complications: Addressing common complications of dialysis such as anemia, mineral and bone disorders, cardiovascular issues, and infections.
• Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Specialized care for complex autoimmune and inflammatory kidney conditions.
• Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Evaluation and planning for optimal long-term dialysis access, including arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), grafts (AVG), and peritoneal dialysis catheters.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Includes lifestyle counseling, medication management, and coordination of multidisciplinary care.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Wen.

All nephrology 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 Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Wen practices at a specialized nephrology clinic located in the vibrant Vancouver neighborhood of Fairview. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Cultural Hub, providing easy access via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), Bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a welcoming environment for comprehensive kidney care. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available for patients, ensuring a smooth and stress-free visit.

What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Wen?

Dr. Wen is involved in the medical aspects of kidney transplantation. This means his role includes assessing if a transplant is a good option for you, helping manage your kidney disease before transplant, and providing ongoing medical care after the surgery. This post-transplant care is vital for the long-term success of the new kidney and involves medication management and regular check-ups.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Wen?

A consultation with Dr. Wen is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.

What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Wen specialize in?

A Nephrologist, such as Dr. Wen, is a medical doctor (MD) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. This includes managing conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), hypertension (high blood pressure), electrolyte imbalances, and providing care for patients requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. a Nephrologist, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

How does Dr. Wen help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Dr. Wen, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. He can investigate underlying causes, optimize medication regimens, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to effectively control blood pressure, which is crucial for protecting kidney health and overall cardiovascular well-being.

What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Wen might discuss?

Dr. Wen can explain various dialysis options if needed. The two main types are hemodialysis, where blood is cleaned outside the body by a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a solution is put into your abdomen to clean the blood internally. Both have different schedules and requirements, and Dr. Wen would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.

a specialized nephrology clinic in Vancouver
5th flood Gordon Diamond Centre, VGH, UBC Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Office Phone: (604) 875-4439 | Office Fax: (604) 642-8816

Dr. Wen is a licensed Nephrologist 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. Wen, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Wen's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/335488/Wen%2CKevin