Dr. Steven Earl Sylvester – Orthopedic Surgeon | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Steven Earl Sylvester is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Kelowna, BC, Dr. Sylvester is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Sylvester is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in BC.

Dr. Sylvester 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. Steven Earl Sylvester earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from Queen's University, graduating in 2009. Subsequently, Dr. Sylvester completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Sylvester brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Sylvester's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Sylvester 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. Sylvester's surgical practice philosophy include: providing clear explanations of conditions and treatment options to empower patients in their healthcare journey; a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient; a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care. Dr. Sylvester provides consultations in English.

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

Traumatic Injuries

• Fractures (Broken Bones): Treating all types of bone fractures in adults and children, from simple breaks requiring casting to complex injuries needing surgical fixation.
• Dislocations: Treatment for acute joint instability caused by traumatic displacement of articular surfaces.
• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.
• Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.

Sports Injuries

• Meniscus Tears: Managing tears of the meniscus (cartilage pads in the knee) through conservative treatment or arthroscopic surgery (repair or meniscectomy).
• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Specialized care for common sports-related ligamentous injuries.
• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Surgical and non-surgical management of acute tendon ruptures and chronic tendinopathies.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Procedures such as debridement or bursectomy when indicated.
• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Surgical debridement and management of bone infections, often in conjunction with long-term antibiotic therapy.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Reconstructive procedures to promote bone healing and restore proper alignment.

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.
• Osteoarthritis: Comprehensive treatment including non-surgical options (medication, injections, therapy) and surgical joint replacement when indicated.

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. Sylvester, 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): Managing all types of fractures, from simple to complex, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Surgical treatment for common bone, joint, and soft tissue disorders as per established orthopedic principles.
• Knee Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Surgical replacement of the knee joint, including total knee arthroplasty and unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement, for severe arthritis or injury.
• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: In-depth consultation to determine the cause of musculoskeletal pain, instability, or dysfunction and to develop a personalized care plan.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Surgical solutions to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain from severe joint damage.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Sylvester. 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. Steven Earl Sylvester adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Steven Earl Sylvester's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Sylvester frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Sylvester when they first notice their hip hurting all the time, making it hard to sleep or get around. Through personalized orthopedic care, the goal is to achieve feeling empowered to take an active role in their recovery and rehabilitation, enabling them to once again enjoy their child running and playing with friends without limitations without hesitation.
• Dr. Sylvester understands that dealing with a bunion on their foot that's causing a lot of pain can be challenging. That's why his treatment plans are geared towards achieving an effective surgical or non-surgical treatment plan tailored to their needs, helping patients comfortably get back to reaching overhead or behind their back comfortably (for shoulder issues) and feeling their best.
• For those affected by having a 'frozen shoulder' that's very stiff and painful, Dr. Sylvester provides solutions that lead to improved hand or foot function for daily activities. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to standing for longer periods without discomfort.

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

Dr. Sylvester's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Kelowna, is situated in the Upper Mission, Kettle Valley neighborhood of Kelowna. The clinic is conveniently located near Okanagan College and is accessible via Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Details on parking can be provided when you book your consultation.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Sylvester covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Sylvester are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, 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. It's always best for patients to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Sylvester are experts in treating all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and then immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace to allow it to heal. Surgical treatment might be necessary for more complex fractures, open fractures (where the bone breaks the skin), or fractures that are unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation (using plates, screws, rods, or pins to hold the bone pieces together) or external fixation (using a frame outside the body connected to pins in the bone). Dr. Sylvester will determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the bone heals correctly and function is restored.

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

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like the hip, knee, or shoulder) are removed and replaced with artificial components (prostheses) made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. Dr. Sylvester might recommend joint replacement if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function, typically due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments (like medication, injections, physiotherapy) are no longer providing adequate relief. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Sylvester at the clinic?

The first visit will typically involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the specific problem (e.g., pain, injury, loss of function), how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities and quality of life. Dr. Sylvester will review any previous treatments and will perform a thorough physical examination of the affected area(s), assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Sylvester will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, working with the patient to establish goals.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Sylvester do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Sylvester is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage a wide range of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. While they are surgeons, Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy) to treat patients. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

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

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

303-3330 Richter St
Kelowna, BC, V1W 4V5

Phone: (250) 763-6066

Dr. Steven Earl Sylvester is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 67747

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/354953/Sylvester%2CSteven

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Sylvester. Dr. Sylvester 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.