Dr. Xi Lisa Li – Anesthesiologist | Vancouver, BC

As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Xi Lisa Li plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Vancouver, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring the highest standards of care are maintained. Dr. Li adheres to the practice standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), with a focus on delivering safe and effective anesthesia services. Her role encompasses comprehensive perioperative management, emphasizing patient-centered care in a multidisciplinary environment.

Dr. Li graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 2008 and subsequently completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. She has obtained key certifications and clinical training in anesthetic techniques, emphasizing patient safety and pain management. Her education and training have equipped her with the expertise necessary to handle a broad spectrum of anesthetic cases, from routine procedures to complex surgeries.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in professionalism and a commitment to excellence. Dr. Li prioritizes patient safety, effective communication, and individualized care tailored to each patient's medical history and procedural requirements. She is committed to continuous learning and maintaining her proficiency in the latest anesthetic practices. Fluent in English, she strives to provide clear and compassionate communication, fostering a reassuring environment for her patients.

• General Anesthesia Administration: Inducing and maintaining a controlled state of unconsciousness ('sleep') using intravenous or inhaled medications, ensuring patient comfort and immobility during major surgery.
• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
• Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
• Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Li (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Dr. Li practices primarily at medical facilities situated in Vancouver’s Yaletown and Downtown South neighborhoods, conveniently located near Queen Elizabeth Park. These facilities are accessible via TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as local bus routes, the SeaBus, and West Coast Express at Waterfront station. The practice location is designed to be accessible for all patients, with the facility being wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for patients attending appointments.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Li? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Li during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. Li for my anesthesia?

While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Li from the team covering your procedure.

Should I take my regular medications on the day of the procedure?

This depends entirely on the specific medication and instructions given to you. You MUST discuss all your regular medications with your surgeon and the anesthesia team during your pre-assessment. Some medications (like certain blood pressure pills) may be taken with a sip of water, while others (especially blood thinners, some diabetes medications) must be stopped or adjusted days beforehand. Never change your medication routine without specific instructions.

Why is it important to follow fasting instructions?

Fasting (not eating or drinking) before anesthesia is critical for your safety. If there is food or liquid in your stomach during anesthesia, it could potentially come up into your throat and lungs (aspiration), which can cause serious lung complications. Following the specific fasting times given to you significantly reduces this risk.

How do my existing health conditions (e.g., heart problems, asthma, sleep apnea) affect anesthesia?

Existing health conditions are a key part of the pre-anesthetic assessment. Dr. Li needs to know about all conditions like heart disease, lung problems (asthma, COPD, sleep apnea), diabetes, kidney disease, etc. This information allows she to choose the safest anesthetic drugs and techniques, anticipate potential issues, and optimize monitoring during your procedure. For example, adjustments might be made for sleep apnea or specific cardiac monitoring used for heart conditions.

1081 Burrard St, Department of Anesthesia
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6

Phone: (604) 806-8337 | Fax: (604) 806-8487

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Li is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/333394/Li%2CXi