About
With expertise in Anesthesiology, Dr. Simantirakis ensures patients receive appropriate anesthetic management tailored to their needs. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Oshawa, Ontario, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, providing comprehensive care in Anesthesiology. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality and safe anesthesia services for all patients requiring surgical or medical procedures.
Dr. Simantirakis graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 1988. He has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology for over 28 years, since 1996. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his advanced training and commitment to excellence in his field.
His clinical philosophy is grounded in evidence-based practices, prioritizing patient safety and comfort during all procedures. Fluent in English and Greek, Dr. Simantirakis is dedicated to clear communication and personalized patient care, with a focus on ensuring safety and optimal outcomes in the Oshawa community.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- 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.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- Acute Postoperative Pain Management: Implementing strategies to manage pain immediately after surgery, utilizing multimodal approaches like regional blocks, IV medications, or patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Simantirakis (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 Ontario (CPSO).
Dr. Simantirakis primarily practices at facilities located in the Vanier and McLaughlin West neighborhoods of Oshawa, Ontario. The practice is conveniently situated near North Oshawa Shopping Centres, making it accessible for patients in the region. Patients can reach the clinic easily via Durham Region Transit (DRT). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Simantirakis? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In Ontario, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Simantirakis during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Simantirakis 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. Simantirakis from the team covering your procedure.
- Why is it important to follow fasting instructions?
- Fasting (not eating or drinking) before anesthesia is critical for your safety. If there is food or liquid in your stomach during anesthesia, it could potentially come up into your throat and lungs (aspiration), which can cause serious lung complications. Following the specific fasting times given to you significantly reduces this risk.
- 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.
- What about nausea and vomiting after anesthesia?
- Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) can occur, but Anesthesiologists like Dr. Simantirakis use strategies to prevent it, especially for patients at higher risk. This may include specific anesthetic techniques, administering anti-nausea medications before, during, or after the procedure, and ensuring adequate hydration. If you do experience nausea, effective treatments are available in the recovery room.
1 Hospital Court
Oshawa, ON L1G 2B9
Phone: (905) 576-8711 | Fax: (905) 721-4773
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Simantirakis is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Simantirakis-Pantelis/0046863-60841