Dr. Kurt Paul Droll – Orthopedic Surgeon | Thunder Bay, ON

Dr. Kurt Paul Droll is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Thunder Bay, ON, Dr. Droll is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Droll is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in ON. As a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, Dr. Droll is 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. Droll serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care.

Dr. Kurt Paul Droll earned a Medical Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2000. Subsequently, Dr. Droll completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Droll brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Droll's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Droll 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. Droll's surgical practice philosophy include: exploring non-operative treatments thoroughly before considering surgery, when appropriate; a focus on restoring function and mobility, aiming to help patients return to their desired activities as safely and quickly as possible; a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care. Dr. Droll provides consultations in English.

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

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Surgical management for chronic or severe cases of tendon inflammation (tendonitis) or bursa inflammation (bursitis) unresponsive to conservative care.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Reconstructive procedures to promote bone healing and restore proper alignment.
• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Surgical debridement and management of bone infections, often in conjunction with long-term antibiotic therapy.

Sports Injuries

• Meniscus Tears: Treating a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms.
• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Specialized care for common sports-related ligamentous injuries.
• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Surgical and non-surgical management of acute tendon ruptures and chronic tendinopathies.
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.

Degenerative Joint Diseases

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

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

• Knee Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Surgical replacement of the knee joint, including total knee arthroplasty and unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement, for severe arthritis or injury.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Surgical treatment for common bone, joint, and soft tissue disorders as per established orthopedic principles.
• Hip Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Expertise in various surgical approaches and implant choices for hip replacement.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Exploring all appropriate non-operative avenues before considering surgery.
• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Managing all types of fractures, from simple to complex, ensuring proper alignment and stability.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Droll. 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. Kurt Paul Droll adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Dr. Kurt Paul Droll's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Droll frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Droll with concerns about a recent ankle sprain that isn't getting better. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve improved hand or foot function for daily activities, making a positive and lasting return to feeling stable and balanced on their feet, reducing fear of falls not just possible, but highly feasible.
• A key objective when treating their child limping or having trouble with their walking at Dr. Droll's welcoming clinic is achieving regaining strength and function after an injury or surgery. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like carrying a backpack or handbag without shoulder or back pain.
• For those affected by a work-related injury to their bones or joints, Dr. Droll provides solutions that lead to being able to return to sports or recreational activities they enjoy. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to walking without a limp or significant pain.

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

Dr. Droll's orthopedic clinic in Thunder Bay is situated in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and is easily accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Details on parking can be provided when you book your consultation.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Droll at the clinic?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, the specific problem (e.g., pain, injury, loss of function), its onset, aggravating and relieving factors, and its impact on your daily life. Dr. Droll will review any prior treatments and perform a thorough physical examination, assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Droll will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment options (surgical and non-surgical), working with you to establish goals.

What should I bring to my orthopedic appointment with Dr. Droll?

Please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card), referral letter, a medication list (dosage and frequency), copies of relevant medical records, imaging reports AND the actual images (if on CD/USB; X-ray, MRI, CT scans are very important), and any test results. Wear comfortable clothing allowing easy examination of the affected area(s) (e.g., shorts for a knee problem). Bring any braces, splints, or assistive devices you use.

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

In Ontario, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required for consultations and surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like OHIP. This ensures the consultation is appropriate and Dr. Droll has necessary background information. Speak with your primary care physician if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

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

Dr. Droll treats all types of fractures. Treatment depends on the fracture type and severity, location, and your overall 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 necessary for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting. Dr. Droll will determine the most appropriate treatment.

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

Joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) replaces damaged or arthritic parts of a joint with artificial components. Dr. Droll might recommend it if you have 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.

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

Recovery time varies greatly depending on the surgery type, joint/bone involved, your age and health, and your adherence to the rehabilitation plan. Minor procedures may take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months. Dr. Droll will discuss the expected timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Droll do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Droll specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves). They manage fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities, using both surgical and non-surgical methods. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Droll covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP))?

Most consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures are typically covered by OHIP in Ontario, provided you have a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging is usually covered. However, some items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check your private insurance coverage.

984 Oliver Road
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 7C7

Phone: (807) 344-1123

Dr. Kurt Paul Droll is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in ON, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 75044

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Droll-Kurt-Paul/0168520-75044

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