Dr. Louis Legault – Nephrologist | Montréal, QC

Dr. Louis Legault is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) in Montréal, QC, he is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring quality and safety in all aspects of patient care. Dr. Legault’s role as a Nephrologist involves the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a broad range of services aimed at early detection, prevention, and management of kidney conditions, including support for patients on dialysis. Patients can expect a professional, compassionate environment dedicated to their kidney health and overall well-being.

With a Medical Degree earned in 1984, Dr. Legault completed a rigorous residency in Internal Medicine followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. He has been practicing as a Nephrologist for over 36 years, since 1988, gaining extensive experience in the field. His certifications include the necessary credentials from the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), reflecting his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice. He has completed rigorous postgraduate training and holds all relevant certifications required to practice as a Nephrologist in Québec, ensuring that his clinical approach is evidence-based and aligned with current guidelines.

Dr. Legault’s professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for his patients. He emphasizes educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them to participate actively in their care. Utilizing the latest evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes through early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. His collaborative approach involves working closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to provide holistic care. Fluent in French, Dr. Legault offers nephrology consultations and treatments designed to meet the diverse needs of the Montréal community, ensuring accessible and personalized care for each patient.

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

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Dr. Legault addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.

• Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Kidney biopsy may be needed for diagnosis in some cases.
• Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A form of AKI that can occur after exposure to iodinated contrast media used in imaging procedures.
• Post-renal AKI: Imaging studies are crucial for diagnosis.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Legault addresses early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with CKD.

• Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: Treated with iron supplements and/or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
• Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): Requires strict blood glucose and blood pressure control, along with specific kidney-protective medications.
• Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Discussions about dialysis options and kidney transplantation.

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Legault addresses management of high blood pressure, especially when it's difficult to control or related to kidney disease, and disorders of body salts and minerals.

• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Treatment targets the underlying cause and correction of the pH imbalance.
• Secondary Hypertension: High blood pressure caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, or renal artery stenosis.
• Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Abnormally low or high potassium levels in the blood, which can affect heart rhythm and muscle function.

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

• Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease using iron therapy and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Genetic counseling and family screening coordination.
• Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Management of dialysis access complications like infections or thrombosis.
• Comprehensive Nephrology Consultation: Thorough assessment of kidney function, diagnosis of kidney diseases, and development of personalized management plans.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Utilizing ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and comprehensive medication strategies.
• Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Development of preventative strategies including dietary modifications and medical therapy.

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

All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) 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. Legault practices at the CHUM's nephrology clinic located in Montréal's vibrant Ville-Marie East (Quartier Latin, Village) neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Place des Arts, easily accessible via the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) with options for metro and bus transit. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a professional environment for comprehensive kidney care. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots to accommodate all patients' needs.

What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Legault and a Urologist?

A Nephrologist like Dr. Legault is a medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing and managing diseases that affect kidney function, such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, dialysis, and medical aspects of kidney transplantation. Urologists are surgical specialists who treat anatomical or structural problems of the kidneys and urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones requiring surgery, bladder issues, prostate problems, cancers of the kidney/bladder/prostate). While both deal with kidneys, Nephrologists manage kidney function and disease medically, whereas Urologists manage surgically and address urinary tract structures.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Legault?

You should see a Nephrologist like Dr. Legault if you have been diagnosed with kidney disease, have significant risk factors (like diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension with signs of kidney impact), or experience symptoms such as persistent swelling, changes in urination, blood or protein in urine, or unexplained fatigue that your family doctor suspects is kidney-related. A referral from your primary care physician or another specialist is typically required.

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

Managing high blood pressure is a key part of kidney care. Dr. Legault can assess complex cases of hypertension, identify if it's related to kidney problems (renal hypertension), and tailor treatment plans that may include specialized medications or adjustments to existing ones to achieve target blood pressure levels and slow down any kidney damage.

Are services from Dr. Legault covered by provincial health insurance?

Most specialized medical care for kidney diseases provided by Dr. Legault is covered under Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). This includes appointments, prescribed kidney function tests, management of dialysis, and care before and after a kidney transplant. Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Legault's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.

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

If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Legault may discuss renal replacement therapies, primarily hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering your blood using an external machine, usually at a dialysis center (or sometimes at home). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and a special solution to filter blood inside your body, and is typically done at home. Dr. Legault will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.

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

Dr. Legault 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.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Legault?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Legault for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)). This ensures that Dr. Legault receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (514) 412-7342.

CHUM
1000 rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1

Office Phone: (514) 890-8000 | Office Fax: (514) 412-7342

Dr. Legault is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Legault, particularly for services covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Verify Dr. Legault's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=84145