About
Dr. Ravi Devendra Ramsewak is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Listowel and performing surgeries at Listowel Memorial Hospital in Listowel, 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 his practice maintains the utmost quality and safety. Dr. Ramsewak 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. His 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 a Medical Degree from The University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago. With over 14 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 2010, he has developed a broad and thorough skill set. Dr. Ramsewak is recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his advanced training and expertise in general surgery.
Dr. Ramsewak is committed to providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He adopts a patient-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication and shared decision-making to ensure patients are fully informed and comfortable with their treatment plans. Utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, he aims to reduce recovery times and improve outcomes. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive care and remains dedicated to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. His goal is to offer the residents of Listowel the highest standard of surgical care with compassion and skill.
Dr. Ravi Ramsewak provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions
Dr. Ramsewak addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Surgical management of complications or medically refractory Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Bowel Obstruction (Small or Large Intestine): Can be caused by adhesions, hernias, tumors, or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is a common treatment.
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Ramsewak addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.
- Liver Tumors (Primary or Metastatic - select cases): Requires specialized hepatobiliary surgical expertise.
- Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Surgical resection of tumors in the colon or rectum, often the primary treatment for localized disease.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Ravi Ramsewak is necessary.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
- General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
- Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Surgical procedures for benign and malignant breast conditions.
- Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
- Sigmoidoscopy: A less extensive examination compared to a full colonoscopy.
- Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): Performed for conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), or bowel obstruction.
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. Ramsewak.
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. Ramsewak's primary clinic is located at a reputable surgical clinic in Listowel, situated in a welcoming neighborhood accessible to patients. The clinic is conveniently situated near major healthcare facilities, including Listowel Memorial Hospital, where most surgical procedures are performed. The location offers easy access via local public transit routes, with parking typically available at or near the hospital and clinic, including designated accessible spots. The clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients can expect a professional, supportive environment for consultations, follow-up care, and surgical procedures. The practice emphasizes accessibility, safety, and a patient-centered approach to all aspects of surgical care.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Ramsewak do?
- Dr. Ramsewak, 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.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Ramsewak?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Ramsewak doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Ramsewak 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. Ramsewak after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Ramsewak perform?
- As a General Surgeon, Dr. Ramsewak 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. Ramsewak's areas of focus within general surgery.
- Does Dr. Ramsewak perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Ramsewak 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. Ramsewak whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
- Do General Surgeons like Dr. Ramsewak ever specialize further?
- Indeed. After completing general surgery residency, surgeons can opt for further fellowship training to subspecialize. Dr. Ramsewak, as a General Surgeon, has a wide scope of practice, but some general surgeons focus more on specific areas like vascular surgery, pediatric surgery (if they have dual certification or focus), or cancer surgery (surgical oncology). General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions. This allows them to offer highly specialized care within those fields while maintaining their broad general surgical skills.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Ramsewak?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Ramsewak is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Ramsewak 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.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Ramsewak?
- A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Ramsewak 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.
255 Elizabeth Street East
Listowel, ON N4W 2P5
Clinic Phone: (519) 291-3120 | Clinic Fax: (519) 291-1528
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Ramsewak 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. Ramsewak for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).
Verify Dr. Ramsewak's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Ramsewak-Ravi-Devendra/0255207-92555