Dr. Todd Wade Swanson – General Surgeon | Surrey, BC

Dr. Todd Wade Swanson is a skilled General Surgeon, specializing in a comprehensive range of surgical treatments. Practicing at Todd Swanson Clinic Surrey and performing surgeries at affiliated local hospitals in Surrey, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Swanson's focus is on accurately 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. The surgical practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care, from initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, utilizing modern surgical techniques and a collaborative approach.

Dr. Swanson graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 2004. He holds specialty certification as a General Surgeon and is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His medical training and ongoing professional development ensure he remains at the forefront of surgical innovation and best practices, providing safe and effective care for his patients.

With a patient-centered philosophy, Dr. Swanson is committed to delivering safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical care. He emphasizes clear communication and shared decision-making, utilizing minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate to promote quicker recovery. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient management and maintains a dedication to ongoing professional development and surgical excellence. He provides surgical consultations and care primarily in English, serving the Surrey community with a focus on personalized, compassionate care.

Dr. Todd Swanson provides surgical treatment for a diverse range of conditions, including:

Abdominal and Digestive System Conditions

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

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Surgical Aspects (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis): Procedures may include bowel resection, strictureplasty, or colectomy with ostomy or pouch creation.
• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) and Gallbladder Disease (Cholecystitis): Symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice.

Cancers and Tumors (Surgical Oncology)

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

• Skin Cancers (e.g., Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): May include sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma to guide further treatment.
• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Often managed in collaboration with sarcoma specialists and oncologists.
• Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: May involve partial or total removal of the stomach and regional lymph nodes.

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

• Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery): Performing various abdominal surgeries using small incisions and specialized camera/instruments.
• Pre-operative Assessment and Planning: Optimizing patient health before elective surgical procedures.
• Post-operative Care and Follow-up: Guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and return to normal activities post-surgery.
• Colonoscopy: Used for colorectal cancer screening, polyp removal (polypectomy), and investigation of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
• General Surgical Consultation: Expert opinion on the need for surgery and discussion of surgical options, risks, and benefits.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy / EGD): Diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible camera.

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. Swanson.

All surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of General Surgeons (CAGS) and relevant surgical best practices. A referral from a physician is typically required for consultation.

Dr. Swanson's primary clinic, Todd Swanson Clinic Surrey, is conveniently located in the vibrant neighborhoods of Guildford and Fraser Heights in Surrey, BC. The clinic is situated close to Highway 99 Access, offering easy transportation options for patients. Patients can access the clinic via TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The clinic and affiliated hospital facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed for patient comfort and privacy, providing a professional environment for consultations and follow-up surgical care. Ample parking is usually available nearby, including accessible parking options, ensuring convenient access for all patients.

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

It's common for General Surgeons such as Dr. Swanson to offer minimally invasive surgical options, including laparoscopic procedures. This approach can lead to benefits like reduced pain and quicker recovery times for many common surgeries. The suitability of laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific medical condition and individual patient factors, which Dr. Swanson would evaluate and discuss with you during your consultation.

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

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

Do General Surgeons like Dr. Swanson ever specialize further?

Yes, while General Surgery provides a broad foundation, many General Surgeons like Dr. Swanson 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. Swanson 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.

When would I typically need a referral to see a General Surgeon like Dr. Swanson?

You would typically be referred to Dr. Swanson 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. Swanson?

Recovery time after surgery performed by Dr. Swanson varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, whether it was open or laparoscopic, your overall health, and individual healing factors. For minor procedures, recovery might be a few days to a couple of weeks. For more major abdominal surgeries, it could be several weeks to a few months. Dr. Swanson will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and an estimated recovery timeline for your particular surgery.

Todd Swanson Clinic Surrey
706-9639 137A St
Surrey, BC V3T 0M1

Clinic Phone: (778) 984-5754 | Clinic Fax: (604) 588-8637

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

Dr. Swanson is a licensed General Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Swanson for services covered by the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)).

Verify Dr. Swanson's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/328217/Swanson%2CTodd