Dr. Maritza Swart – General Surgeon | Woodstock, ON

Dr. Maritza Swart is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at Ron Joyce Children's Health Centre and performing surgeries at Woodstock Hospital in Woodstock, ON, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that all patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based care. Dr. Swart has expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. She performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. Her approach is deeply rooted in providing high-quality, patient-centered care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, employing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach to achieve optimal outcomes.

Dr. Swart graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Pretoria School of Medicine in South Africa. With over 10 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 2014, she has developed a broad skill set in both routine and complex surgical procedures. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her commitment to maintaining professional excellence and adhering to rigorous standards of practice.

Her professional philosophy is centered around providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Dr. Swart emphasizes clear communication and shared decision-making, ensuring patients are well-informed and comfortable throughout their surgical journey. She is dedicated to utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and reduce discomfort. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, she ensures comprehensive management of her patients’ conditions. Additionally, Dr. Swart is committed to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence, serving the diverse community of Woodstock. She also communicates effectively in Afrikaans, in addition to English, to better serve her diverse patient population.

Dr. Maritza Swart provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Swart addresses a range of disorders affecting organs within the abdomen, including the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and colon.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Procedures may include bowel resection, strictureplasty, or colectomy with ostomy or pouch creation.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Surgical treatment for life-threatening complications of peptic ulcers, such as perforation leading to peritonitis.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Swart addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.

• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: May involve partial or total removal of the stomach and regional lymph nodes.
• Pancreatic Cancer (when resectable): Distal pancreatectomy for tumors in the body or tail of the pancreas.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Maritza Swart is necessary.

• Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
• General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Discussing the surgical plan, expected outcomes, and answering patient questions before surgery.
• Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Surgical procedures for benign and malignant breast conditions.
• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Procedure to visualize the upper digestive tract directly.

Note: This list provides an overview of common surgical areas. Specific procedures and treatment plans are determined on an individual basis after consultation with Dr. Swart.

All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Swart's primary clinic is located at the Ron Joyce Children's Health Centre in Woodstock, Ontario, situated within a well-equipped medical clinic in the Woodstock neighborhood. The clinic offers a professional and patient-focused environment, designed for consultations, follow-up care, and minor procedures. Surgical procedures are typically performed at Woodstock Hospital, a modern facility equipped to handle a wide range of surgical interventions. The hospital and clinic are conveniently accessible via local public transit routes, with parking generally available at or near both locations, including designated accessible spots. The facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed with patient comfort and privacy in mind. The clinic's proximity to major healthcare facilities in Woodstock ensures seamless coordination of care, and the environment fosters a safe and supportive setting for all patients.

What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Swart?

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Swart is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Swart will discuss the expected recovery process, including hospital stay (if any), return to work, and activity restrictions, as part of your pre-operative consultation and post-operative care plan.

Does Dr. Swart perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?

It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Swart to offer minimally invasive surgical options, including laparoscopic procedures. This approach can lead to benefits like reduced pain and quicker recovery times for many common surgeries. The suitability of laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific medical condition and individual patient factors, which Dr. Swart would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Swart do?

A General Surgeon, such as Dr. Swart, is a highly trained physician specializing in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of a broad range of diseases affecting various parts of the body. Their expertise commonly includes conditions of the abdomen (e.g., appendix, gallbladder, intestines, stomach), breast, skin, soft tissues, and endocrine system (e.g., thyroid). They perform both elective and emergency surgeries and are skilled in pre-operative, operative, and post-operative patient care. As a General Surgeon, Dr. Swart provides comprehensive surgical management.

When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Swart?

You would typically be referred to Dr. Swart if your primary care physician identifies a condition that might benefit from surgical intervention or a specialist surgical opinion. Common reasons include issues like gallstones, appendicitis, hernias, bowel problems, thyroid nodules, breast lumps, or certain skin lesions. General surgeons also perform diagnostic procedures like endoscopies or biopsies to help confirm a diagnosis before planning surgery.

Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Swart?

Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Swart is an opportunity to evaluate your condition, discuss diagnostic findings, and explore all treatment options. In some cases, surgery may be the recommended course of action, but in others, non-surgical management, observation, or further investigation might be more appropriate. Dr. Swart will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Swart perform?

Dr. Swart, a General Surgeon, performs a wide range of surgeries. These frequently involve organs in the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, appendix, stomach, and intestines. They also address hernias, conditions of the breast, thyroid gland, and skin/soft tissue masses. Depending on the condition and patient, Dr. Swart may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.

Ron Joyce Children's Health Centre
310 Juliana Drive
Woodstock, ON N4V 0A4

Clinic Phone: (519) 421-4211

The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.

Dr. Swart is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Swart for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Swart's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Swart-Maritza/0241788-86984