Dr. Suzana Kupper is a skilled General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus), specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at a surgical clinic in St. Albert and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in St. Albert, AB, she is a respected member of the surgical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Kupper has a dedicated focus on diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the abdomen, digestive system, breast, skin, and endocrine system, among others. She performs both elective and emergency surgeries, often utilizing minimally invasive techniques to enhance patient recovery. Her approach is rooted in providing high-quality, patient-focused care, guiding patients from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery with modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.
Dr. Suzana Kupper graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 2011. She has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as a General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus) in Alberta. Her certification and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with the latest surgical advancements and best practices in cancer care and general surgery.
Her professional philosophy is centered on delivering safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. Dr. Kupper emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring clear communication and shared decision-making. She utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive management of complex cases. Dedicated to surgical excellence for her patients in St. Albert, she also communicates effectively in Portuguese, in addition to English, to serve a diverse patient population. Her commitment to ongoing professional growth ensures she remains at the forefront of surgical innovation and patient care excellence.
Dr. Suzana Kupper provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:
Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Kupper addresses surgical removal of malignant tumors and often nearby lymph nodes, as a key component of cancer therapy.
- Liver Tumors (Primary or Metastatic - select cases): Surgical resection (hepatectomy) of primary liver cancers (e.g., hepatocellular carcinoma) or isolated liver metastases from other cancers (e.g., colorectal).
- Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: Often part of a multimodal treatment approach with chemotherapy and/or radiation.
Trauma and Acute Care Surgery
Dr. Kupper addresses involves rapid decision-making and complex operative procedures to manage critical conditions.
- Abdominal Trauma (Blunt or Penetrating): Critical care and resuscitation are key components of trauma management.
- Chest Trauma (e.g., Hemothorax, Pneumothorax requiring surgery): Surgical interventions for severe chest injuries, such as placement of chest tubes or, in some cases, thoracotomy for ongoing bleeding or major air leak.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your specific condition, a consultation with Dr. Suzana Kupper is necessary.
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal - Open or Laparoscopic): Frequently performed laparoscopically for faster recovery.
- Thyroidectomy / Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (for nodules, cancer, or hyperthyroidism).
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and return to normal activities post-surgery.
- Appendectomy (Open or Laparoscopic): Emergency or elective procedure to treat an inflamed or infected appendix.
- Skin Lesion Excision and Soft Tissue Mass Removal: Excision of lumps and bumps (soft tissue masses) for diagnosis and treatment.
- 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. Kupper.
All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.
Dr. Kupper's primary clinic is located at a dedicated surgical facility in the vibrant neighborhood of St. Albert City. The clinic is conveniently situated near The Enjoy Centre, easily accessible via public transportation, including St. Albert Transit (StAT) for local and commuter routes to Edmonton. Surgical procedures are typically performed at affiliated hospitals in St. Albert, which are equipped with modern facilities. Both the clinic and hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed with patient comfort and privacy in mind. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Parking is generally available at or near the hospital and clinic locations, with designated accessible parking spots for those with mobility needs. Specific amenities and access points may vary depending on the facility, but all are committed to providing a safe and patient-centered experience.
- What does a General Surgeon like Dr. Kupper do?
- Dr. Kupper, a General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus), 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.
- When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Kupper?
- You would typically be referred to Dr. Kupper if your primary care physician identifies a condition that might benefit from surgical intervention or a specialist surgical opinion. Common reasons include issues like gallstones, appendicitis, hernias, bowel problems, thyroid nodules, breast lumps, or certain skin lesions. General surgeons also perform diagnostic procedures like endoscopies or biopsies to help confirm a diagnosis before planning surgery.
- What is the typical recovery time after a general surgical procedure performed by Dr. Kupper?
- The duration of recovery following surgery with Dr. Kupper is specific to the operation performed and your personal health. Minimally invasive surgeries often have shorter recovery periods than traditional open surgeries. Dr. Kupper 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.
- Does Dr. Kupper perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery?
- Many General Surgeons like Dr. Kupper 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. Kupper whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition.
- What types of surgical procedures does Dr. Kupper perform?
- As a General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus), Dr. Kupper 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. Kupper's areas of focus within general surgery.
- Do I always need surgery if I have a consultation with Dr. Kupper?
- A surgical consultation with Dr. Kupper doesn't automatically mean you will have surgery. The purpose of the visit is for Dr. Kupper to assess your condition thoroughly, review any tests, and discuss whether surgery is the most suitable treatment, or if alternative non-operative options should be considered. The final decision is typically made collaboratively between you and Dr. Kupper after weighing the potential risks and benefits.
4 St Joseph St, St Thomas Surgical Clinic
St. Albert, AB T8N 0B5
Clinic Phone: (780) 459-6633 | Clinic Fax: (780) 459-6609
The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Dr. Kupper is a licensed General Surgeon (Surgical Oncology Focus) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Kupper for services covered by the provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)).
Verify Dr. Kupper's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=ddff4de6-3cb4-400e-b789-7e50099fc976&i=799