Dr. Michael Andrew Barrett Anderson – General Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Michael Andrew Barrett Anderson is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at Mackenzie Health and performing surgeries at University Health Network Hospital in Toronto, ON, he is a respected member of the surgical community. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Anderson's role involves diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. He performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. His practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has over 24 years of experience practicing as a General Surgeon since 2000. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Throughout his career, Dr. Anderson has committed himself to maintaining the highest standards of surgical excellence and continuing professional development, ensuring his patients receive the most current and effective surgical care.

Dr. Anderson’s professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He prioritizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. Whenever appropriate, he utilizes minimally invasive techniques to promote quicker recovery and less discomfort. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, he aims to offer comprehensive management tailored to each patient's unique needs. His dedication to ongoing learning and surgical excellence ensures that patients in Toronto benefit from the latest advances in surgical care. Dr. Anderson provides surgical consultations and care in English, with a focus on compassionate, personalized treatment.

Dr. Michael Anderson provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Anderson 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.
• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is a common treatment.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Anderson addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.

• Breast Cancer: Part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan including radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: May involve partial or total removal of the stomach and regional lymph nodes.
• Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Procedures may include colectomy, rectal resection, and lymph node dissection.

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

• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Emergency or elective procedure to treat an inflamed or infected appendix.
• Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): May involve open or laparoscopic approaches, with potential for anastomosis (reconnection) or ostomy creation.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Used to investigate symptoms like heartburn, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or bleeding; can include biopsies or minor interventions.
• General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Frequently performed laparoscopically for faster recovery.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Endocrine surgical procedures requiring careful dissection and nerve preservation.

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. Anderson.

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. Anderson’s primary clinic is located at Mackenzie Health in Toronto's Davisville North neighborhood. The clinic offers a welcoming, professional environment designed to provide comprehensive consultation and follow-up surgical care. Surgical procedures are typically performed at the University Health Network Hospital, a leading facility in Toronto, equipped with modern operating rooms and patient-centered amenities. The practice location is conveniently accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), with nearby parking options including accessible parking facilities. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to ensure patient comfort and privacy. The area is close to Cherry Beach, offering a scenic environment for patients and visitors. Patients can expect a dedicated, professional environment that prioritizes safety, comfort, and effective communication throughout their surgical journey.

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

You would typically be referred to Dr. Anderson 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.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Anderson do?

A General Surgeon, such as Dr. Anderson, 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. Anderson provides comprehensive surgical management.

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

It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Anderson 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. Anderson would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.

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

Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Anderson varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, whether it was open or laparoscopic, your overall health, and individual healing factors. For minor procedures, recovery might be a few days to a couple of weeks. For more major abdominal surgeries, it could be several weeks to a few months. Dr. Anderson will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Anderson ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Anderson may develop particular areas of interest or pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialties. These can include areas like colorectal surgery, breast surgery, endocrine surgery, surgical oncology (cancer surgery), trauma/critical care surgery, vascular surgery, or pediatric surgery. If Dr. Anderson has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise him brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.

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

A surgical consultation with Dr. Anderson doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Anderson to assess your condition thoroughly, review any tests, and discuss whether surgery is the most suitable treatment, or if alternative non-operative options should be considered. The final decision is typically made collaboratively between you and Dr. Anderson after weighing the potential risks and benefits.

Mackenzie Health
200 Elizabeth St
Toronto, ON M4P 1S3

Clinic Phone: (705) 717-6100

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

Dr. Anderson 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. Anderson for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Anderson's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Anderson-Michael-Andrew-Barrett/0056598-68186