About
Dr. Pietro Ravani is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Calgary in Calgary, AB, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive kidney care within the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that every patient receives safe and effective treatment. As a Nephrologist, he specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a welcoming environment for patients requiring early detection, prevention, and management of complex kidney conditions, including support for those on dialysis.
Dr. Ravani graduated with a Laurea en Medicina e Chirugia in 1989 from Italy. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. With over 30 years of experience practicing as a Nephrologist since 1994, he has developed a deep expertise in kidney health. He has completed rigorous postgraduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as a Nephrologist in Alberta, including certification from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). His credentials reflect a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional excellence and ongoing education in kidney medicine.
Dr. Ravani’s professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and enhancing quality of life for his patients. He emphasizes educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them through shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes by focusing on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to provide holistic and personalized care. Fluent in Italian, he ensures clear communication with all patients, fostering trust and understanding in his practice.
Dr. Pietro Ravani provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Ravani addresses management of high blood pressure, especially when it's difficult to control or related to kidney disease, and disorders of body salts and minerals.
- Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Treatment targets the underlying cause and correction of the pH imbalance.
- Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Common in hospitalized patients and those with kidney, heart, or liver disease.
- Secondary Hypertension: High blood pressure caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, or renal artery stenosis.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Ravani addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Direct damage to the kidney tissues, such as acute tubular necrosis (ATN) from toxins or ischemia, glomerulonephritis, or interstitial nephritis.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Preventive measures are important in high-risk patients.
- Pre-renal AKI: Kidneys themselves are initially undamaged but are not receiving enough blood.
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Ravani addresses diagnosis often requires a kidney biopsy, and treatment may involve immunosuppressive medications.
- Nephritic Syndrome: Characterized by hematuria (blood in urine), hypertension, oliguria (reduced urine output), and some degree of proteinuria and edema.
- IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Often presents with visible blood in urine during or after an infection.
- Lupus Nephritis: Requires aggressive immunosuppressive therapy to prevent kidney failure.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Pietro Ravani is necessary.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Education on self-management strategies for CKD.
- Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Close collaboration with endocrinologists and primary care physicians.
- Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Specialized care for complex autoimmune and inflammatory kidney conditions.
- Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: Prompt evaluation and treatment for sudden loss of kidney function.
- Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Addressing underlying causes and restoring normal physiological balance.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Monitoring for complications, managing symptoms, and discussing new therapeutic options.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Ravani.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Ravani practices primarily at a specialized nephrology clinic located in Calgary’s NW neighborhood, including Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington). The clinic is conveniently situated near Calgary Tower and easily accessible via Calgary Transit options such as CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT routes. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive kidney care. Patients can usually find convenient parking options in proximity to the clinic, making it easy to attend appointments and receive the specialized nephrology services they need.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ravani?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Ravani for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)). This ensures that Dr. Ravani receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. Please have your referring doctor's office contact Dr. Ravani's clinic for referral instructions.
- Are services from Dr. Ravani covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most specialized medical care for kidney diseases provided by Dr. Ravani is covered under Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). This includes appointments, prescribed kidney function tests, management of dialysis, and care before and after a kidney transplant. Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Ravani's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- How does Dr. Ravani help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?
- Dr. Ravani, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. He can investigate underlying causes, optimize medication regimens, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to effectively control blood pressure, which is crucial for protecting kidney health and overall cardiovascular well-being.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Ravani?
- Dr. Ravani is involved in the medical aspects of kidney transplantation. This means his role includes assessing if a transplant is a good option for you, helping manage your kidney disease before transplant, and providing ongoing medical care after the surgery. This post-transplant care is vital for the long-term success of the new kidney and involves medication management and regular check-ups.
- What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Ravani specialize in?
- Dr. Ravani is a Nephrologist, a physician with specialized training in kidney health and disease. He manages the full spectrum of kidney disorders, from early detection and prevention to advanced therapies like dialysis and post-transplant care. He specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Ravani?
- A consultation with Dr. Ravani is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Ravani?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Ravani manages numerous conditions affecting the kidneys. These frequently include different stages of Chronic Kidney Disease, high blood pressure affecting the kidneys, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, kidney stones (medical management), and advanced kidney failure requiring renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplant). He specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Calgary
1403 29 St NW
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9
Office Phone: (403) 210-7839
Dr. Ravani is a licensed Nephrologist 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. Ravani, particularly for services covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
Verify Dr. Ravani's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=d6bfece6-3b42-4ed2-9820-9fcef309576f&i=1212