About
As an experienced Otolaryngologist (ENT) (commonly known as an ENT Doctor), Dr. Thomas M. Gillis offers comprehensive care for disorders of the head and neck, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. Practicing at Thomas Gillis Clinic Calgary in Calgary, AB, he serves the local community with a focus on providing high-quality ENT services. Dr. Gillis's practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring safe and effective patient care.
Dr. Gillis graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Dalhousie University in 1974 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. He holds certifications including Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC). These credentials reflect his commitment to maintaining high professional standards and staying current with medical advancements.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. Dr. Gillis is dedicated to providing personalized, comprehensive ENT care to adults and children. He communicates fluently in English and strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel informed and involved in their healthcare decisions.
Dr. Thomas Gillis manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:
Specific Pediatric ENT Conditions
- Enlarged Tonsils & Adenoids causing Airway Obstruction or Sleep Apnea: Swollen tonsils and adenoids in children that can block the airway, leading to snoring, mouth breathing, or sleep-disordered breathing.
- Recurrent Nosebleeds in Children: Frequent episodes of bleeding from the nose in children, often due to dry air, nose picking, or fragile blood vessels.
- Ankyloglossia (Tongue-Tie) & Lip-Tie affecting feeding/speech: Conditions where a short or tight band of tissue restricts the movement of the tongue (tongue-tie) or lip (lip-tie), potentially impacting breastfeeding, feeding, or speech.
- Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis & Sinusitis: Allergic reactions affecting the nasal passages and sinuses in children, requiring age-appropriate management strategies.
Common Head and Neck Conditions (General)
- Thyroid Cancer (Papillary, Follicular, Medullary, Anaplastic): Malignant growths within the thyroid gland, requiring specialized diagnosis and treatment, often involving surgery.
- Dermoid Cysts of the Head and Neck: Benign congenital cysts containing skin structures, which can occur in various locations on the head and neck.
Common Ear Conditions
- Eardrum Perforation (Ruptured Eardrum): A hole or tear in the tympanic membrane (eardrum), which can result from infection, injury, or pressure changes.
- Presbycusis (Age-Related Hearing Loss): Gradual loss of hearing that occurs in many people as they grow older.
This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Thomas Gillis or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.
- Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
- Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.
- Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
- Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Gillis offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Gillis's areas of focus.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). A referral may be required.
Dr. Gillis's practice is primarily based at the Thomas Gillis Clinic Calgary, situated in the SW: Haysboro, Kingsland, Kelvin Grove neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near the University of Calgary and Foothills Medical Centre, making it accessible for patients in the community. Patients can reach the clinic via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are services from Dr. Gillis, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Gillis are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the clinic if you have questions.
- Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Gillis, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?
- Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Gillis. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.
- How are allergies related to ENT problems?
- Allergies can significantly impact the ears, nose, and throat. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Allergies can also contribute to chronic sinusitis, eustachian tube dysfunction (leading to ear pressure, popping, or fluid), recurrent ear infections, and exacerbate conditions like asthma or voice changes. An ENT specialist may investigate and help manage the ENT-related symptoms of allergies, often by recommending nasal sprays, antihistamines, or discussing options like immunotherapy, sometimes working in conjunction with an allergist.
- What does an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon (ENT Doctor) like Dr. Gillis do?
- An Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, often called an ENT doctor, like Dr. Gillis, is a medical doctor with specialized training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. This includes medical treatments and surgical procedures for hearing disorders, sinus problems, voice issues, sleep apnea, throat infections, and tumors of the head and neck region.
Thomas Gillis Clinic Calgary
201-506 71 Ave SW
Calgary, AB T2V 4V4
Phone: (403) 228-2330 | Fax: (403) 228-3349
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Gillis is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=214c4d44-fbb4-4f90-8fba-4bde5cde922d&i=523