Dr. Peter Gregory Fitzgerald – General Surgeon | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Peter Gregory Fitzgerald is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Hamilton and performing surgeries at Brant Community Healthcare System Hospital in Hamilton, ON, he is a respected member of the surgical community. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that each patient receives safe, effective, and personalized care. Dr. Fitzgerald 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.

He graduated with his Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada and has accumulated over 34 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1990. Recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), Dr. Fitzgerald maintains a commitment to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. His extensive experience and dedication ensure that patients in Hamilton benefit from expert surgical care tailored to their individual needs.

Dr. Fitzgerald’s professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care with a patient-centered approach. He emphasizes clear communication and shared decision-making, ensuring patients are well-informed about their treatment options. Whenever appropriate, he utilizes minimally invasive techniques to promote quicker recovery and reduced discomfort. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, Dr. Fitzgerald strives to offer comprehensive care that addresses each patient’s unique circumstances, reflecting his dedication to surgical excellence and compassionate patient service. He provides surgical consultations and care in English.

Dr. Peter Fitzgerald provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Fitzgerald addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.

• Bowel Obstruction (Small or Large Intestine): Blockage that prevents food or liquid from passing through the small intestine or large intestine (colon).
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): May involve resection of the bleeding source or oversewing of ulcers.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Fitzgerald addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.

• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: May involve partial or total removal of the stomach and regional lymph nodes.
• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Often managed in collaboration with sarcoma specialists and oncologists.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Peter Fitzgerald is necessary.

• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Used to investigate symptoms like heartburn, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or bleeding; can include biopsies or minor interventions.
• Colonoscopy: An important procedure for preventing and detecting colon cancer.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A less extensive examination compared to a full colonoscopy.
• Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Surgical removal of benign or malignant skin lesions (e.g., moles, cysts, skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).
• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedures to alleviate pain and prevent complications associated with hernias.
• 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. Fitzgerald.

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

Dr. Fitzgerald practices primarily at a modern surgical clinic located in Hamilton's Corktown and Stinson neighborhoods. The clinic offers a professional, welcoming environment for consultations and follow-up care. Surgical procedures are usually performed at the Brant Community Healthcare System Hospital, situated conveniently within Hamilton. The clinic is easily accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR), with accessible parking usually available nearby, including designated parking for patients with mobility needs. The facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to ensure patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a compassionate, patient-focused approach from initial consultation through recovery, in a setting dedicated to high-quality surgical care.

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

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Fitzgerald 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.

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

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

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Fitzgerald perform?

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

What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Fitzgerald?

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Fitzgerald is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Fitzgerald will discuss the expected recovery process, including hospital stay (if any), return to work, and activity restrictions, as part of your pre-operative consultation and post-operative care plan.

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

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

Suite 207, 1200 Main Street West
Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5

Clinic Phone: (905) 521-2100

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

Dr. Fitzgerald is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Fitzgerald for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. Fitzgerald's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Fitzgerald-Peter-Gregory/0041356-55332