Dr. Michael Ross Driedger – General Surgeon | Calgary, AB

Dr. Michael Ross Driedger is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Calgary and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Calgary, AB, 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 Alberta (CPSA). 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 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. Driedger graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 2013. He has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as a General Surgeon in Alberta. He is certified by the appropriate regulatory bodies and maintains a commitment to ongoing professional development to ensure the highest standards of surgical care.

His professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. Dr. Driedger emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. He utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management. He is dedicated to surgical excellence and continually strives to enhance his skills to serve the surgical needs of his patients in Calgary. He provides surgical consultations and care in English, ensuring accessible and compassionate service.

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

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

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

• Appendicitis: If untreated, can lead to rupture and peritonitis.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease Complications (Perforation, Bleeding, Obstruction): Emergency surgery to repair perforated ulcers or control massive bleeding.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Part of a multidisciplinary approach to managing IBD.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Driedger addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.

• 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.
• 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 Driedger is necessary.

• Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Often involves coordination with oncologists and plastic surgeons for comprehensive breast cancer care.
• Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): May involve open or laparoscopic approaches, with potential for anastomosis (reconnection) or ostomy creation.
• General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
• Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Procedures often performed under local anesthesia with attention to cosmetic closure.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Discussing the surgical plan, expected outcomes, and answering patient questions before surgery.
• Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Consultations to help patients make informed decisions about their surgical care.

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. Driedger.

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

Dr. Driedger's primary clinic is located at a dedicated surgical clinic in Calgary's NW neighbourhoods, including Hillhurst, Westmount, and Sunnyside (Kensington). Surgical procedures are usually performed at affiliated local hospitals within Calgary. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. The location offers a professional environment suitable for consultations, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-up care. Parking is typically available at or near the hospital and clinic, with designated accessible spots. The clinic's proximity to Calgary City Hall and accessibility via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT) ensures convenient access for patients from various parts of the city. Details may vary by specific facility, but the emphasis remains on providing a safe, accessible, and patient-centered environment for surgical care.

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

A surgical consultation with Dr. Driedger doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Driedger 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. Driedger after weighing the potential risks and benefits.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Driedger perform?

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

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

You would typically be referred to Dr. Driedger 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.

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

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

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Driedger do?

Dr. Driedger, 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 General Surgeons like Dr. Driedger ever specialize further?

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

1403 29 St NW
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9

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

Dr. Driedger is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Driedger for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).

Verify Dr. Driedger's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0f8b9eec-c566-4e84-b944-2070f6663be7&i=394