About
With expertise in Anesthesiology, Dr. Neil Brent Klassen ensures patients receive appropriate anesthetic management tailored to their needs. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Edmonton, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Klassen provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, focusing on patient safety and comfort during surgical procedures.
Dr. Klassen graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 1991 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology. He holds key certifications in anesthesiology and critical care medicine, ensuring his practice aligns with current evidence-based standards and best practices.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes evidence-based, patient-centered care, with a strong commitment to safety and effective pain management in Edmonton. Dr. Klassen speaks English fluently and dedicates himself to maintaining the highest standards of practice and patient safety in all procedures.
- Pre-Anesthetic Assessment and Consultation: Thorough evaluation of patient health, medical history, medications, and surgical/procedural plan to create the safest and most effective anesthesia plan.
- General Anesthesia Administration: Inducing and maintaining a controlled state of unconsciousness ('sleep') using intravenous or inhaled medications, ensuring patient comfort and immobility during major surgery.
- Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Klassen (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).
Dr. Klassen primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Downtown East, Boyle Street, and Riverdale neighborhoods of Edmonton. His practice location is conveniently situated near the Edmonton Elks CFL team stadium and major community events, making it accessible for patients in the region. The facilities are well-connected via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including Light Rail Transit (LRT) and bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Klassen? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Klassen during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Klassen for my anesthesia?
- While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Klassen from the team covering your procedure.
- How will my pain be managed after the procedure?
- Effective pain management is a priority. Depending on the procedure, Dr. Klassen may use strategies like regional nerve blocks placed before or during surgery for prolonged numbness, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumps, epidural infusions, or a combination of different types of pain medications (multimodal analgesia). The goal is to keep you comfortable to aid recovery and mobility. This plan is often coordinated with the surgical team.
- What are common side effects of anesthesia?
- Common, usually temporary side effects can include nausea, vomiting, sore throat (if a breathing tube was used), drowsiness, dizziness, shivering, or minor discomfort at an IV or block site. Dr. Klassen takes steps to minimize these (e.g., using anti-nausea medication). More serious side effects are uncommon but will be discussed if relevant to your specific situation.
- What is the role of an Anesthesiologist?
- An Anesthesiologist is a specialist medical doctor (physician) extensively trained in anesthesiology, critical care medicine, and pain management. They are responsible for developing the anesthesia plan, administering anesthetic drugs, ensuring your safety and vital functions (like breathing, heart rate, blood pressure) are stable during a procedure, managing any medical emergencies that arise, and overseeing your immediate recovery and pain control afterwards.
10240 Kingsway NW, Royal Alexandra Hospital
Edmonton, AB T5H 3V9
Phone: (780) 735-4111
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Klassen is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=dc894bb8-463c-4531-87b8-5046f42df282&i=769