About
Dr. Paul Francis Petrasek is a skilled General and Vascular 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 a special focus on Vascular Surgery, managing diseases of the arteries and veins, such as peripheral artery disease, aortic aneurysms, and carotid artery stenosis, in addition to general surgical conditions. 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.
He holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Toronto (1987) and is certified as a General and Vascular Surgeon. His certifications include the Certificate of Special Competence in Vascular Surgery, Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC), and Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in General Surgery. These credentials reflect his extensive training and commitment to surgical excellence.
Dr. Petrasek’s professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care with a patient-centered approach. He emphasizes clear communication, shared decision-making, and utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to enhance recovery. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, he ensures comprehensive management for each patient. His ongoing dedication to professional development and surgical innovation aims to deliver the highest standard of care for patients in Calgary. He provides surgical consultations and care in English, ensuring accessibility and clarity for his patients.
Dr. Paul Petrasek provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Petrasek addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.
- Appendicitis: A common cause of acute abdominal pain, especially in the right lower quadrant.
- Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits; severe cases may require surgery.
Trauma and Acute Care Surgery
Dr. Petrasek addresses addressing life-threatening injuries and acute surgical emergencies requiring immediate intervention.
- Perforated Viscus (e.g., Stomach, Intestine): Requires prompt surgery to prevent overwhelming infection and sepsis.
- Abdominal Trauma (Blunt or Penetrating): May require emergency laparotomy to control bleeding, repair organ damage, or remove devitalized tissue.
- Chest Trauma (e.g., Hemothorax, Pneumothorax requiring surgery): Surgical interventions for severe chest injuries, such as placement of chest tubes or, in some cases, thoracotomy for ongoing bleeding or major air leak.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Paul Petrasek is necessary.
- General Surgical Consultation: Evaluation of patients referred for consideration of general surgical procedures.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Frequently performed laparoscopically for faster recovery.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Minimally invasive approaches for procedures like cholecystectomy, appendectomy, hernia repair, and colectomy, often resulting in less pain and faster recovery.
- Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Often involves coordination with oncologists and plastic surgeons for comprehensive breast cancer care.
- Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques or traditional open surgery.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands (typically for hyperparathyroidism).
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. Petrasek.
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. Petrasek’s primary practice is located at a dedicated surgical clinic in Calgary, situated conveniently in the NE: Falconridge, Coral Springs, Castleridge neighbourhood. The clinic provides a professional, patient-focused environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated hospitals nearby, equipped with modern facilities and staffed by experienced surgical teams. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. The location is easily accessible via Calgary Transit options including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. Parking is usually available in close proximity, with accessible options for patients. The practice emphasizes safety, ease of access, and a welcoming environment, ensuring a seamless experience from initial consultation to recovery.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Petrasek?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Petrasek 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.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Petrasek do?
- Dr. Petrasek, a General and Vascular 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 I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Petrasek?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Petrasek 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. Petrasek will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Petrasek perform?
- Dr. Petrasek, a General and Vascular Surgeon, performs a wide range of surgeries. These frequently involve organs in the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, appendix, stomach, and intestines. They also address hernias, conditions of the breast, thyroid gland, and skin/soft tissue masses. Depending on the condition and patient, Dr. Petrasek may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.
- Does Dr. Petrasek perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Petrasek 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. Petrasek whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
3500 26 Ave NE, Peter Lougheed Centre
Calgary, AB T1Y 6J4
Clinic Phone: (403) 943-5507 | Clinic Fax: (403) 291-2734
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Petrasek is a licensed General and Vascular 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. Petrasek for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).
Verify Dr. Petrasek's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=cfb9d52a-3fad-4f23-85ef-8367a0383c1d&i=1154