Dr. Robert Todd Alexander – Nephrologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Robert Todd Alexander is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Edmonton, AB, he is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive and evidence-based 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 full range of kidney care services, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.

Dr. Alexander graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Western Ontario in 1999. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. With over 20 years of experience practicing as a Nephrologist since 2004, he has developed a deep expertise in kidney health. He holds the necessary certifications to practice as a Nephrologist in Alberta, having completed rigorous postgraduate training and meeting all licensing requirements of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta.

His professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. Dr. Alexander is committed to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them with knowledge to make informed decisions. He utilizes evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies to optimize patient outcomes, with a focus on early detection, prevention of progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure holistic care. All communication and care are provided in English, with a dedicated focus on the well-being of his patients in Edmonton.

Dr. Robert Alexander provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

Dr. Alexander addresses can be primary (originating in the kidneys) or secondary to systemic diseases like lupus or vasculitis.

• Nephrotic Syndrome: Characterized by heavy proteinuria (protein in urine), low blood albumin, edema (swelling), and high cholesterol.
• IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Often presents with visible blood in urine during or after an infection.
• Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): A disease characterized by scarring in some glomeruli, often leading to nephrotic syndrome and progressive kidney damage.

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Alexander 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.

• Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Imbalances in the body's sodium and water levels, which can lead to serious neurological and systemic complications.
• Secondary Hypertension: Important to consider in young patients or those with abrupt onset of severe hypertension.
• Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Abnormally low or high potassium levels in the blood, which can affect heart rhythm and muscle function.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Alexander addresses management focuses on slowing progression, treating underlying causes like diabetes and hypertension, and managing complications.

• Mineral and Bone Disorder of CKD (CKD-MBD): Aims to prevent fractures and cardiovascular complications.
• Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Focus on controlling risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar), lifestyle modifications, and avoiding kidney-damaging medications.
• Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): A common complication of diabetes where high blood sugar levels damage the kidneys' filtering units.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Robert Alexander is necessary.

• Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Management of CKD-Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD) through dietary advice, phosphate binders, and vitamin D analogues.
• Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Evaluation for underlying causes of recurrent kidney stones.
• Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Often crucial in hospitalized patients or those with advanced kidney disease.
• Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Training and support for patients opting for home hemodialysis, promoting independence.
• Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: May involve kidney biopsy for diagnosis and immunosuppressive therapies.
• Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Coordination with vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists for access creation and maintenance.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Alexander.

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. Alexander's primary nephrology clinic is located in a specialized facility in Edmonton's S Central area, near the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently situated close to the Mayfield Toyota Ice Palace and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive kidney care. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available, making it easy for patients to attend their appointments and receive personalized nephrology services in a convenient setting.

What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Alexander?

Dr. Alexander treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Alexander specialize in?

Dr. Alexander 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. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

How does Dr. Alexander help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Dr. Alexander, 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.

Are services from Dr. Alexander covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Alexander, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). 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. Alexander's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.

What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Alexander might discuss?

If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Alexander may discuss renal replacement therapies, primarily hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering your blood using an external machine, usually at a dialysis center (or sometimes at home). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and a special solution to filter blood inside your body, and is typically done at home. Dr. Alexander will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.

a specialized nephrology clinic in Edmonton
1B107-8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2J2

Office Phone: (780) 248-5560

Dr. Alexander 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. Alexander, particularly for services covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Verify Dr. Alexander's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=96c5a5a5-0afe-4aba-82d5-288640a967e7&i=56