Dr. Michael James Horkoff is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Vernon and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Vernon, BC, he is a respected member of the surgical community. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). His role involves diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. Dr. Horkoff 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, guiding patients from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery with a modern, collaborative approach.
He graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2015 and holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon. His credentials include certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, affirming his expertise and adherence to rigorous professional standards. Dr. Horkoff continually updates his skills and knowledge to incorporate the latest advancements in surgical care, ensuring his patients benefit from current best practices.
Dr. Horkoff's professional philosophy emphasizes 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 support quicker recovery and less post-operative discomfort. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, he strives for comprehensive patient management. His dedication to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence ensures that patients in Vernon receive the highest standard of surgical care. Dr. Horkoff offers consultations and surgical care in English, committed to supporting his patients' health and well-being throughout their surgical journey.
Dr. Michael Horkoff provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Horkoff addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.
- Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Common types include inguinal (groin), umbilical (belly button), and incisional (at the site of a previous surgery).
- Bowel Obstruction (Small or Large Intestine): Often requires urgent surgical intervention to relieve the obstruction.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Horkoff addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.
- Breast Cancer: Surgical treatment options including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast).
- Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Procedures may include colectomy, rectal resection, and lymph node dissection.
- 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. Michael Horkoff is necessary.
- Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Often involves coordination with oncologists and plastic surgeons for comprehensive breast cancer care.
- Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
- Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): Performed for conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), or bowel obstruction.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Advanced surgical techniques requiring specialized training and equipment.
- Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Reviewing existing diagnoses and proposed surgical treatments to provide additional perspective.
- Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical correction of hernias, where an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall or groin.
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. Horkoff.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Horkoff's primary clinic is located in a surgical clinic in Vernon, situated in the Central Vernon, Downtown neighborhood. The clinic is easily accessible from Kal Tire Place (Arena) and is well connected by the Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a professional environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Parking is typically available at or near the hospital and clinic locations, with designated accessible spots. Exact details may vary depending on the specific facility.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Horkoff?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Horkoff is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Horkoff 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. Horkoff perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Horkoff are trained in and regularly perform laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery. This technique involves making several small incisions instead of one large one, using a camera and specialized instruments to perform the operation. Laparoscopic approaches are common for procedures like gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and hernia repair, often resulting in less post-operative pain, smaller scars, and a faster return to normal activities. You should discuss with Dr. Horkoff whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Horkoff do?
- Dr. Horkoff, a General Surgeon, is a specialist surgeon who manages a wide variety of common and complex surgical problems. General surgeons are often the primary surgical contact for conditions involving the digestive tract, abdominal organs, hernias, breast diseases, and skin/soft tissue lesions. They are trained in numerous surgical techniques, including minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery, and play a critical role in both planned (elective) operations and emergency surgical situations.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Horkoff?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Horkoff doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Horkoff 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. Horkoff after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Horkoff?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Horkoff is usually made by your family doctor or another specialist when a condition is suspected or diagnosed that may require surgical evaluation or treatment. This could include persistent abdominal pain, a new lump or mass (e.g., in the breast or skin), symptoms of gallbladder disease, a hernia, signs of appendicitis, or concerns about colorectal conditions. They also manage conditions initially identified through screening, like colon polyps or early-stage breast cancer.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Horkoff perform?
- As a General Surgeon, Dr. Horkoff is skilled in a variety of surgical procedures. Common operations include appendectomies (appendix removal), cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal), hernia repairs, bowel resections (for conditions like cancer or diverticulitis), thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and surgeries for breast conditions. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques, which often lead to quicker recovery. The specific procedures offered depend on Dr. Horkoff's areas of focus within general surgery.
3107 35 Ave, General Surgery Clinic
Vernon, BC V1T 2T2
Clinic Phone: (250) 545-6443
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Horkoff is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Horkoff for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).
Verify Dr. Horkoff's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/338973/Horkoff%2CMichael