About
Dr. Peter Hugh MacDonald is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Kingston and performing surgeries at Kingston Health Sciences Centre in Kingston, ON, 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 Ontario (CPSO). He 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. Dr. MacDonald’s approach is centered on providing compassionate, patient-focused care, guiding patients through every step from initial consultation to post-operative recovery, with a focus on safety, effectiveness, and evidence-based practices.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has accumulated over 35 years of experience practicing as a General Surgeon since 1989. His professional qualifications include recognition as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), license number 54373. Throughout his career, he has dedicated himself to maintaining the highest standards of surgical excellence and ongoing professional development, ensuring that his patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.
Dr. MacDonald’s professional philosophy emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. He is committed to providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care, utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and less discomfort. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, he strives to deliver comprehensive and individualized care. His dedication to surgical excellence in Kingston is reflected in his ongoing commitment to professional growth, patient safety, and compassionate care. Dr. MacDonald provides surgical consultations and follow-up care primarily in English, fostering a respectful and understanding environment for his patients.
Dr. Peter MacDonald provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. MacDonald addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): Surgical intervention for severe or persistent bleeding from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract that is not controllable by endoscopic means.
- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, a medical emergency typically requiring surgical removal (appendectomy).
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. MacDonald addresses collaborative cancer care where general surgeons work with oncologists to manage solid tumors.
- Thyroid Cancer and other Endocrine Tumors: Requires expertise in endocrine surgery to preserve vital structures.
- Breast Cancer: Surgical treatment options including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast).
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Surgical excision of malignant tumors arising from soft tissues (muscle, fat, connective tissue).
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 MacDonald is necessary.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Endocrine surgical procedures requiring careful dissection and nerve preservation.
- Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Thorough evaluation of patient fitness for surgery and detailed surgical planning.
- General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
- Colonoscopy: Diagnostic and screening examination of the entire colon (large intestine) using a flexible camera.
- Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedures to alleviate pain and prevent complications associated with hernias.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Advanced surgical techniques requiring specialized training and equipment.
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. MacDonald.
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. MacDonald's primary clinic is located at a well-equipped surgical facility in Kingston's Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood. Surgical procedures are typically performed at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, which is accessible and equipped with modern operating suites. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. The location is conveniently situated near landmarks such as the Grand Theatre and is accessible via Kingston Transit. Parking is generally available at or near the hospital and clinic, with designated accessible spots. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment for consultations, surgical planning, and follow-up care, ensuring a seamless and patient-centered experience.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. MacDonald?
- Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. MacDonald 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. MacDonald will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.
- Do General Surgeons like Dr. MacDonald ever specialize further?
- Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. MacDonald may develop particular areas of interest or pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialties. These can include areas like colorectal surgery, breast surgery, endocrine surgery, surgical oncology (cancer surgery), trauma/critical care surgery, vascular surgery, or pediatric surgery. If Dr. MacDonald has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise him brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. MacDonald do?
- Dr. MacDonald, a General 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.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. MacDonald perform?
- As a General Surgeon, Dr. MacDonald 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. MacDonald's areas of focus within general surgery.
- Does Dr. MacDonald perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. MacDonald to offer minimally invasive surgical options, including laparoscopic procedures. This approach can lead to benefits like reduced pain and quicker recovery times for many common surgeries. The suitability of laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific medical condition and individual patient factors, which Dr. MacDonald would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. MacDonald?
- You would typically be referred to Dr. MacDonald if your primary care physician identifies a condition that might benefit from surgical intervention or a specialist surgical opinion. Common reasons include issues like gallstones, appendicitis, hernias, bowel problems, thyroid nodules, breast lumps, or certain skin lesions. General surgeons also perform diagnostic procedures like endoscopies or biopsies to help confirm a diagnosis before planning surgery.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. MacDonald?
- Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. MacDonald varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, whether it was open or laparoscopic, your overall health, and individual healing factors. For minor procedures, recovery might be a few days to a couple of weeks. For more major abdominal surgeries, it could be several weeks to a few months. Dr. MacDonald will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.
Suite 406, 76 Stuart St.
Kingston, ON K7L 2V7
Clinic Phone: (613) 549-6666 | Clinic Fax: (613) 548-2500
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. MacDonald 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. MacDonald for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).
Verify Dr. MacDonald's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/MacDonald-Peter-Hugh/0040397-54373