About
With expertise in Anesthesiology, Dr. Martin Lessard ensures patients receive appropriate anesthetic management tailored to their needs. Practicing primarily at facilities in Québec City, QC, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, adhering to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). His role involves comprehensive perioperative care, with a focus on patient safety and comfort during all stages of anesthesia. Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include Critical Care Medicine, where he applies advanced skills to manage critically ill patients effectively.
Dr. Lessard graduated with a Medical Degree in 1986 and holds specialty certification in Anesthesiology issued July 1, 1986. He completed extensive post-graduate medical training in Anesthesiology, including internships and residencies, ensuring a deep expertise in the field. His certifications are maintained through ongoing professional development and adherence to provincial standards.
He adopts a professional and clinical approach to his practice, emphasizing patient safety and comfort in Québec City. Fluent in French, Dr. Lessard communicates effectively with his diverse patient population, ensuring thorough understanding and personalized care. His commitment is to uphold the highest standards of medical practice, fostering a safe and reassuring environment for all patients undergoing procedures requiring anesthesia.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
- General Anesthesia Administration: Inducing and maintaining a controlled state of unconsciousness ('sleep') using intravenous or inhaled medications, ensuring patient comfort and immobility during major surgery.
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Lessard (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).
Dr. Lessard primarily practices at the Hôpital Enfant-Jésus - CHU de Québec, situated near the central Québec City neighborhood of Québec City. The facility is conveniently located close to the Galeries de la Capitale shopping mall and is easily accessible via the Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC). The hospital provides comprehensive surgical and procedural services in a modern environment. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Lessard? Is it covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?
- In QC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Lessard during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Lessard for my anesthesia?
- While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Lessard from the team covering your procedure.
- What are common side effects of anesthesia?
- Common, usually temporary side effects can include nausea, vomiting, sore throat (if a breathing tube was used), drowsiness, dizziness, shivering, or minor discomfort at an IV or block site. Dr. Lessard takes steps to minimize these (e.g., using anti-nausea medication). More serious side effects are uncommon but will be discussed if relevant to your specific situation.
- Do Anesthesiologists only work in the operating room?
- While the OR is central, Anesthesiologists like Dr. Lessard often work in other areas too, including:
- Labour and delivery suites (providing epidurals)
- Intensive Care Units (managing critically ill patients)
- Pre-operative assessment clinics
- Pain clinics (treating chronic pain)
- Procedure rooms (e.g., endoscopy, radiology, cardiology)
His specific areas of practice will depend on his training and hospital/clinic roles.
Hôpital Enfant-Jésus - CHU de Québec
1401 18e Rue
Québec City, QC G1J 1Z4
Phone: (418) 649-5803
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Lessard is a licensed physician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=86065