Dr. Michael Paul Chatenay – General Surgeon | Chilliwack, BC

Dr. Michael Paul Chatenay is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Chilliwack and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Chilliwack, BC, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). He has expertise in 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. The surgical 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.

Dr. Chatenay graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 1990. He holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon and is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training and credentials reflect a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of surgical practice and patient safety.

His professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care with a patient-centered approach. Dr. Chatenay emphasizes clear communication, shared decision-making, and utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. He provides surgical consultations and care primarily in English, ensuring accessible and compassionate service to the community of Chilliwack.

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

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Chatenay addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): Surgical intervention for severe or persistent bleeding from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract that is not controllable by endoscopic means.
• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Part of a multidisciplinary approach to managing IBD.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

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

• Thyroid Cancer and other Endocrine Tumors: Requires expertise in endocrine surgery to preserve vital structures.
• Pancreatic Cancer (when resectable): Complex surgical procedures like the Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) for tumors in the head 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 Chatenay is necessary.

• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands (typically for hyperparathyroidism).
• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Surgical removal of the gallbladder, commonly for gallstones (cholelithiasis) or gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis).
• Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Emergency or elective procedure to treat an inflamed or infected appendix.
• Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Surgical procedures for benign and malignant breast conditions.
• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and return to normal activities post-surgery.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Used to investigate symptoms like heartburn, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or bleeding; can include biopsies or minor interventions.

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. Chatenay.

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. Chatenay's primary practice is located at a dedicated surgical clinic in the heart of Chilliwack's Chilliwack Downtown, Central neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Eagle Landing Shopping Centre and accessible via the Chilliwack/Agassiz-Harrison Transit System (BC Transit). Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals, ensuring comprehensive care. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy, providing a professional environment for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-up. Ample parking options, including accessible parking, are usually available nearby to facilitate easy access for patients and visitors.

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

Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Chatenay 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. Chatenay will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.

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

Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Chatenay 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. Chatenay will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Chatenay perform?

As a General Surgeon, Dr. Chatenay 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. Chatenay's areas of focus within general surgery.

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

Many General Surgeons like Dr. Chatenay 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. Chatenay whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Chatenay do?

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

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Chatenay ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Chatenay 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. Chatenay 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.

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

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Chatenay 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.

108 9123 St. Mary Street
Chilliwack, BC V2P 4H7

Clinic Phone: (604) 792-8099 | Clinic Fax: (604) 792-3015

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

Dr. Chatenay 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. Chatenay for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).

Verify Dr. Chatenay's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/376379/Chatenay%2CMichael