About
Specializing in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Kristina Zakhary (an ENT Doctor) provides expert medical and surgical solutions for patients in Calgary. Practicing at a clinic or hospital setting in Calgary, AB, she serves the local community. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality and safe patient care. Dr. Zakhary focuses on providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a broad spectrum of ear, nose, throat, and head/neck conditions for both adults and children.
Dr. Zakhary graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Master of Surgery (CM) from McGill University in 1999. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, gaining specialized expertise in diagnosing and managing complex ENT conditions. Her certifications include certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice.
Committed to patient education and evidence-based care, Dr. Zakhary emphasizes a collaborative approach to treatment. She strives to provide high-quality ENT care tailored to each patient's individual needs. Fluent in English, Arabic, and French, she ensures effective communication and personalized patient experiences in Calgary.
Dr. Kristina Zakhary manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:
Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Aspects
- Cosmetic Nasal Concerns requiring Rhinoplasty: Dissatisfaction with the aesthetic appearance of the nose, which can be addressed with surgical reshaping (rhinoplasty).
- Facial Skin Cancers requiring Excision and Reconstruction: Malignant skin growths on the face or neck that necessitate surgical removal and subsequent reconstruction to restore form and function.
Common Head and Neck Conditions (General)
- Benign & Malignant Salivary Gland Tumors (e.g., Parotid, Submandibular): Abnormal growths in the salivary glands, which can be noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant), requiring careful diagnosis and management.
- Oral Cavity Cancers (Tongue, Floor of Mouth, Buccal Mucosa): Malignant tumors arising in the mouth, including the tongue, inner lining of the cheeks, and floor of the mouth.
- Branchial Cleft Cysts & Sinuses: Congenital (present at birth) pockets or tracts in the neck resulting from incomplete development of embryonic structures.
- Pharyngeal Cancers (Nasopharynx, Oropharynx, Hypopharynx): Cancers affecting different parts of the pharynx (throat), including the upper part behind the nose (nasopharynx), middle part (oropharynx), and lower part (hypopharynx).
- Thyroglossal Duct Cysts: A congenital cyst typically found in the midline of the neck, arising from remnants of the thyroid gland's developmental path.
This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Kristina Zakhary or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.
- Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
- Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
- Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
- Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Zakhary offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Zakhary's areas of focus.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). A referral may be required.
Dr. Zakhary primarily practices at a modern clinic within the SW Calgary neighborhood, near the Calgary Tower. The location is easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are services from Dr. Zakhary, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Zakhary are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the clinic if you have questions.
- Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Zakhary, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?
- Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Zakhary. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.
- How can Dr. Zakhary help with snoring and sleep apnea?
- Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are often caused by an obstruction or narrowing of the airway in the nose or throat. Dr. Zakhary, an ENT specialist, can perform a thorough examination to identify the areas of obstruction (e.g., deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, large tongue base, elongated soft palate). Depending on the findings, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (weight loss, positional therapy), CPAP therapy (often managed by a sleep physician), oral appliances, or surgical procedures aimed at improving airway patency. Examples include septoplasty, tonsillectomy, UPPP, or Inspire therapy in select cases.
2303 4 St SW, Suite 404
Calgary, AB T2S 2S7
Phone: (403) 229-1700
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Zakhary is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0ae1bcdc-5229-48c4-b96a-6596554af93c&i=1607