Dr. Mikaël Kassin-Dufresne – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC

Dr. Mikaël Kassin-Dufresne is a highly skilled Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (commonly known as an ENT Doctor) dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Practicing at Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC, he serves the local community with a focus on providing high-quality, evidence-based care. His practice adheres to the standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatment tailored to their needs.

Dr. Kassin-Dufresne completed his medical degree in 2018 and has been practicing as a specialist in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery for over six years. He has undergone extensive post-graduate training in this field, equipping him with the expertise to manage complex ENT conditions. His certifications include completing comprehensive residency programs and continual medical education to stay current with advances in his specialty.

With a commitment to patient education and collaborative care, Dr. Kassin-Dufresne emphasizes a thorough understanding of each patient's unique situation. He strives to deliver compassionate, evidence-based ENT services in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and speaks fluent French, ensuring effective communication with his patients. His clinical philosophy centers on providing personalized care that prioritizes safety, comfort, and optimal outcomes.

Dr. Mikaël Kassin-Dufresne manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:

Common Throat, Voice, and Swallowing Conditions

• Peritonsillar Abscess (Quinsy): A collection of pus that forms behind one of the tonsils, typically as a complication of bacterial tonsillitis.
• Leukoplakia / Erythroplakia of the Larynx (Precancerous Lesions): White (leukoplakia) or red (erythroplakia) patches on the vocal cords that may indicate precancerous changes.
• Vocal Cord Nodules, Polyps, Cysts & Granulomas: Benign growths or lesions on the vocal cords that can cause hoarseness and other voice problems, often related to voice overuse or irritation.
• Chronic Cough (when related to upper airway or reflux): A persistent cough lasting eight weeks or longer, which may be linked to post-nasal drip, reflux, or laryngeal irritation.

This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Mikaël Kassin-Dufresne or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
• Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.
• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Kassin-Dufresne offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Kassin-Dufresne's areas of focus.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). A referral may be required.

Dr. Kassin-Dufresne's practice is primarily based at the Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu in the Saint-Jean Sector North neighborhood of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. The hospital is conveniently located near Fort Saint-Jean (Royal Military College) and is easily accessible via Transport Urbain / Taxibus du Haut-Richelieu. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Kassin-Dufresne, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Kassin-Dufresne are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) or the clinic if you have questions.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Kassin-Dufresne, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Kassin-Dufresne. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.

What are common causes of hearing loss an ENT might address?

Hearing loss can result from various causes, including age-related changes (presbycusis), noise exposure, earwax buildup (cerumen impaction), ear infections (otitis media), fluid in the middle ear, damage to the eardrum or middle ear bones (ossicles), Meniere's disease, otosclerosis, or, less commonly, tumors or genetic conditions. An ENT specialist can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause and recommend appropriate management, which may include medical treatment, hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or surgery.

My child gets frequent tonsillitis. What are the treatment options?

Recurrent tonsillitis can be managed in several ways. For acute bacterial infections, antibiotics are often prescribed. If infections are very frequent (e.g., multiple episodes per year), severe, cause breathing problems or difficulty swallowing, or don't respond well to antibiotics, a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be recommended by an ENT specialist. Dr. Kassin-Dufresne can assess your child's specific situation, including the frequency and severity of episodes, and discuss the best course of action.

Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu
920 boul du Séminaire N
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC J3A 1B7

Phone: (450) 359-5000

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kassin-Dufresne is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=18182