Dr. Saima Hassan – General Surgeon | Montréal, QC

Dr. Saima Hassan is a skilled General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus), specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Montréal, QC, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). She has built a reputation for providing compassionate, expert surgical care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Her focus is on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach to ensure optimal outcomes.

Dr. Hassan holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has over 11 years of experience as a General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus) since 2013. She has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice in Quebec. Her certifications and ongoing professional development underscore her commitment to maintaining surgical excellence and staying current with evolving practices in general and oncologic surgery.

Her professional philosophy emphasizes providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care in a patient-centered environment. Dr. Hassan is committed to clear communication, shared decision-making, and utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to enhance recovery. She collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and is dedicated to ongoing professional growth and surgical excellence. Fluent in French, she offers consultations and surgical care in both languages, ensuring accessible and respectful communication for her diverse patient population.

Dr. Saima Hassan provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Thoracic Conditions (General Surgeon Scope or Thoracic Subspecialty)

Dr. Hassan addresses surgical treatment for lung cancer, esophageal diseases, and other conditions within the chest cavity.

• Esophageal Diseases (e.g., GERD requiring surgery, Achalasia, Esophageal Cancer - select cases): Aimed at restoring normal function or removing cancerous tissue.
• Pleural Diseases (e.g., Recurrent Pleural Effusion, Empyema): Often performed using VATS.

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. Hassan addresses common and complex diseases of the digestive system that may necessitate surgical procedures performed by a general surgeon.

• Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Surgical repair is often recommended to prevent pain and complications like strangulation.
• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, a medical emergency typically requiring surgical removal (appendectomy).

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Saima Hassan is necessary.

• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Monitoring recovery after surgical procedures, managing potential complications.
• Breast Surgery (e.g., Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Biopsy): Often involves coordination with oncologists and plastic surgeons for comprehensive breast cancer care.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Endocrine surgical procedures requiring careful dissection and nerve preservation.
• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Frequently performed laparoscopically for faster recovery.
• Hernia Repair (e.g., Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedures to alleviate pain and prevent complications associated with hernias.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Thorough evaluation of patient fitness for surgery and detailed surgical planning.

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. Hassan.

All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Hassan's primary clinic is located at the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) in Montréal's Ville-Marie East (Quartier Latin, Village) neighborhood. The clinic offers a comfortable, professional, and patient-oriented environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated local hospitals, which are equipped with modern facilities. The practice is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), including Métro and bus services. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Patients and visitors can generally find parking in hospital-affiliated lots or nearby public parking facilities. Whether for initial consultation or ongoing care, Dr. Hassan's practice provides comprehensive, high-quality services in a convenient and accessible setting.

Does Dr. Hassan perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?

It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Hassan 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. Hassan would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Hassan perform?

As a General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus), Dr. Hassan 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. Hassan's areas of focus within general surgery.

Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Hassan?

Not necessarily. A consultation with a General Surgeon like Dr. Hassan 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. Hassan will provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best approach for your specific situation, ensuring you are fully informed to make a decision.

What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Hassan?

The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Hassan is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Hassan 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. Hassan?

A referral to a General Surgeon like Dr. Hassan 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.

CHUM
1000 rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1

Clinic Phone: (514) 890-8000

The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.

Dr. Hassan is a licensed General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus) regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Hassan for services covered by the provincial health plan (Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)).

Verify Dr. Hassan's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=12187