Dr. Stephanie Lauren Searle – Orthopedic Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Stephanie Lauren Searle is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at Greenbelt Family Health Team in Toronto, ON, Dr. Searle is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Searle is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in ON.

Dr. Searle serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care as a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. The goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical means.

Dr. Stephanie Lauren Searle earned a Medical Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2019. Subsequently, Dr. Searle completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Searle brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Searle's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Searle is committed to ongoing professional development and staying at the forefront of orthopedic advancements to offer the best possible care to patients. Key aspects of Dr. Searle's surgical practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care; a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient; a focus on restoring function and mobility, aiming to help patients return to their desired activities as safely and quickly as possible. Dr. Searle provides consultations in English.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Stephanie Lauren Searle diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

Sports Injuries

• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Addressing problems that cause the shoulder joint to slip out of place.
• Meniscus Tears: Treating a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms.

Traumatic Injuries

• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.
• Sprains and Strains: Diagnosing and treating ligament sprains (stretching or tearing of ligaments) and muscle/tendon strains (injuries to muscles or tendons).

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Interventions may include core decompression or joint replacement depending on the stage.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Addressing the musculoskeletal consequences of autoimmune joint diseases in collaboration with rheumatologists.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, which may be surgical or non-surgical, are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Searle, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Expert treatment of broken bones in adults and children, aiming for optimal healing and functional recovery.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Surgical solutions to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain from severe joint damage.
• Knee Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Advanced techniques to restore knee function and alleviate pain through arthroplasty.
• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: In-depth consultation to determine the cause of musculoskeletal pain, instability, or dysfunction and to develop a personalized care plan.
• Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (Musculoskeletal): Integrating imaging findings with clinical assessment to guide treatment decisions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Searle. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any procedure or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation.

All surgical and non-surgical treatments by Dr. Stephanie Lauren Searle adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Greenbelt Family Health Team, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Searle frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration breaking their arm/leg/hip and needing it fixed can cause, Dr. Searle tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve regaining strength and function after an injury or surgery, allowing for renewed participation in activities like typing, writing, or using tools without hand or wrist pain.
• Through Dr. Searle's skilled guidance and modern surgical techniques, patients suffering from arthritis in their hands making it hard to grip things often find they can readily achieve being able to sleep better without being woken by musculoskeletal pain and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like getting in and out of a car or chair without difficulty.
• When patients discuss difficulty lifting their arm due to a rotator cuff tear, Dr. Searle outlines a path to feeling empowered to take an active role in their recovery and rehabilitation, aiming to restore not just musculoskeletal health but also the ability to comfortably carrying a backpack or handbag without shoulder or back pain.

Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Searle, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Searle is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Searle's practice, Greenbelt Family Health Team, is situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Meridian Hall and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Patient parking, including accessible spots, is typically available.

Do I typically need a referral to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Searle?

In Ontario, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist (e.g., sports medicine physician, rheumatologist) is generally required to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Searle for consultations and potential surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Searle has the necessary background medical information. If you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Searle covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP))?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Searle are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in Ontario, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging ordered is also usually covered. However, some specific items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with Greenbelt Family Health Team about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance, if applicable, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Searle?

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery (e.g., arthroscopy vs. joint replacement vs. fracture fixation), the specific joint or bone, the patient's age and health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Minor procedures may take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months. Dr. Searle will discuss the expected recovery timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Searle recommend it?

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, replaces damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like the hip, knee, or shoulder) with artificial components (prostheses). Dr. Searle might recommend it if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or significant injury, and non-surgical treatments are inadequate. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Searle do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Searle is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves). They manage fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities using both surgical and non-surgical methods. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

How does Dr. Searle treat broken bones (fractures)?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone and immobilizing it with a cast or brace. Surgical treatment (internal or external fixation) might be necessary for complex fractures or those unlikely to heal well with casting. Dr. Searle will determine the most appropriate treatment.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Searle at Greenbelt Family Health Team?

The first visit involves a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment, including a detailed discussion of your medical history, the problem, and its impact on daily life. Dr. Searle will perform a physical examination and review any prior imaging. Based on this, she will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline potential treatment options.

Greenbelt Family Health Team
Unit Unit 1C, 500 University Avenue, Unit 1C
Toronto, ON, M5G 1V7

Phone: (416) 978-6976

Dr. Stephanie Lauren Searle is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in ON, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 118818

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Searle-Stephanie-Lauren/0328601-118818

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Searle. Dr. Searle and the team are dedicated to providing expert orthopedic care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.