Dr. Russell Christie – Anesthesiologist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Russell Christie is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at facilities in Ottawa, ON, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a calm and reassuring approach. He adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring the highest quality of care for his patients. Dr. Christie’s role involves comprehensive anesthesia management, emphasizing patient safety and comfort throughout every procedure.

Dr. Christie graduated with a Medical Degree from Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine in 2017 and has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology since 2021. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his advanced training and expertise in this specialty. His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures he remains current with the latest practices and innovations in anesthesiology.

His clinical philosophy centers on providing a calm and reassuring environment for his patients. Dr. Christie is dedicated to ensuring safety and comfort during procedures and values clear communication with his patients. He speaks English fluently and strives to make every patient feel supported and informed, fostering trust and peace of mind in Ottawa’s healthcare setting.

• Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) / Sedation: Providing varying levels of sedation (light to deep) and analgesia, combined with close monitoring of vital signs, for procedures not requiring general anesthesia.
• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• Pre-Anesthetic Assessment and Consultation: Thorough evaluation of patient health, medical history, medications, and surgical/procedural plan to create the safest and most effective anesthesia plan.
• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Christie (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Dr. Christie primarily practices at reputable medical facilities located in the Hintonburg, Civic Hospital, and Westboro East neighborhoods of Ottawa. His locations are conveniently situated near the Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum and Carlingwood Shopping Centre. Patients can access these facilities via OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT or bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Christie? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Christie during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. Christie for my anesthesia?

While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Christie from the team covering your procedure.

How do my existing health conditions (e.g., heart problems, asthma, sleep apnea) affect anesthesia?

Existing health conditions are a key part of the pre-anesthetic assessment. Dr. Christie needs to know about all conditions like heart disease, lung problems (asthma, COPD, sleep apnea), diabetes, kidney disease, etc. This information allows he to choose the safest anesthetic drugs and techniques, anticipate potential issues, and optimize monitoring during your procedure. For example, adjustments might be made for sleep apnea or specific cardiac monitoring used for heart conditions.

Should I take my regular medications on the day of the procedure?

This depends entirely on the specific medication and instructions given to you. You MUST discuss all your regular medications with your surgeon and the anesthesia team during your pre-assessment. Some medications (like certain blood pressure pills) may be taken with a sip of water, while others (especially blood thinners, some diabetes medications) must be stopped or adjusted days beforehand. Never change your medication routine without specific instructions.

1053 Carling Ave
Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9

Phone: (613) 761-4169

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Christie is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Christie-Russell/0317813-112802