Dr. Sandy Ian Rae McDonald – General Surgeon | Barrie, ON

Dr. Sandy Ian Rae McDonald is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in Barrie and performing surgeries at Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital in Barrie, ON, he is a respected member of the surgical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. McDonald’s role involves 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 approach is compassionate and skilled, dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery. The practice is committed to employing modern surgical techniques within a collaborative environment, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has over 42 years of experience as a General Surgeon since 1982. Dr. McDonald is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His extensive training and ongoing professional development ensure that he remains at the forefront of surgical advancements, applying the latest evidence-based practices to his patient care.

Dr. McDonald’s professional philosophy centers on providing safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care with a patient-centered approach. He emphasizes clear communication and shared decision-making, utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to facilitate faster recovery and less post-operative discomfort. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, he aims to deliver comprehensive management for all surgical cases. His dedication to surgical excellence ensures that patients in Barrie and surrounding areas benefit from experienced, compassionate care. Dr. McDonald provides surgical consultations and ongoing care primarily in English, ensuring clear understanding and reassurance for his patients.

Dr. Sandy McDonald provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

Dr. McDonald addresses conditions requiring surgical intervention for diagnosis or treatment of the gastrointestinal tract and related abdominal organs.

• Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Ventral, Incisional, Hiatal): Surgical repair is often recommended to prevent pain and complications like strangulation.
• Diverticulitis / Diverticular Disease: Can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits; severe cases may require surgery.
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding (requiring surgical intervention): Surgical intervention for severe or persistent bleeding from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract that is not controllable by endoscopic means.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. McDonald addresses involving the surgical diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer.

• Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer): Surgical resection of tumors in the colon or rectum, often the primary treatment for localized disease.
• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: Often part of a multimodal treatment approach with chemotherapy and/or radiation.

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

• Sigmoidoscopy: A less extensive examination compared to a full colonoscopy.
• Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
• Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Procedure to alleviate symptoms related to gallbladder disease.
• General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
• Second Opinion for Surgical Conditions: Offering expert second opinions for patients considering general surgical interventions.
• Bowel Resection / Colectomy (for benign or malignant conditions): Surgical removal of a portion of the small or large intestine (colon).

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. McDonald.

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. McDonald practices primarily at a modern surgical clinic situated in Barrie’s Downtown Barrie, East Bayfield neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently accessible to residents and visitors, located near Barrie Waterfront (Kempenfelt Bay). Patients can reach the clinic easily via Barrie Transit and find parking in hospital-affiliated lots or nearby public parking facilities. Surgical procedures are typically performed at Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital, which is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy. Dr. McDonald’s practice environment fosters professionalism, ensuring a welcoming and patient-oriented setting for consultations, preoperative assessments, and follow-up surgical care.

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

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

What does a General Surgeon like Dr. McDonald do?

Dr. McDonald, 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.

What types of surgical procedures does Dr. McDonald perform?

Dr. McDonald, a General Surgeon, performs a wide range of surgeries. These frequently involve organs in the abdomen, such as the gallbladder, appendix, stomach, and intestines. They also address hernias, conditions of the breast, thyroid gland, and skin/soft tissue masses. Depending on the condition and patient, Dr. McDonald may use traditional open surgery or advanced minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods.

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

Many General Surgeons like Dr. McDonald 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. McDonald whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.

Do General Surgeons like Dr. McDonald ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. McDonald may develop particular areas of interest or pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialties. These can include areas like colorectal surgery, breast surgery, endocrine surgery, surgical oncology (cancer surgery), trauma/critical care surgery, vascular surgery, or pediatric surgery. If Dr. McDonald has such a focus, it will be part of the expertise him brings to patient care. General surgeons perform a wide variety of common surgical procedures and can manage many different types of conditions.

R R 2, 60 Bell Farm Road
Barrie, ON L4M 5G6

Clinic Phone: (705) 728-8778 | Clinic Fax: (705) 728-3053

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

Dr. McDonald 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. McDonald for services covered by the provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)).

Verify Dr. McDonald's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/McDonald-Sandy-Ian-Rae/0025434-30257