Finding a Specialist

Finding the right care can be difficult
Appendix Cancer Canada is here to support you in finding the right specialist. We know it can be stressful and confusing to figure out who to see for treatment, especially since not all hospitals have experience with appendix cancer. That’s why we’ve put together a list of Canadian specialists who treat this rare cancer. This list is growing as we continue to find and confirm qualified professionals.

Diagnosing and treating appendix cancer takes special knowledge and experience, so it’s important to find a doctor who knows how to provide the right care.
In Canada, not all hospitals have doctors who specialize in appendix cancer, and only a limited number offer a treatment called cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with heated chemotherapy (HIPEC). This treatment is often used for advanced cases of appendix cancer. Because access to CRS and HIPEC is limited, it’s important for patients and families to be aware of the following key points:
- Referral Requirement: You need your doctor or oncologist to refer you to the surgeons listed.
- Be Aware: Not all surgeons offering CRS/HIPEC have the same level of appendix cancer experience.
- Questions to ask may include:
- Where did they receive their appendix cancer training?
- How many appendix cancer patients have they treated?
- Approximately how many CRS/HIPECs have they performed?
Some patients may also be treated with chemotherapy or immunotherapy before, after or instead of surgery. Those patients are treated by medical oncologists, who are not included on this list.
If you decide to get a second opinion after seeing the specialist in your area, please note that there may be fees charged for this additional consultation if it is out of province (or country). Please see our guide on Getting a Second Opinion for additional information.
Disclaimer: This list is provided for informational purposes only. The inclusion of a physician or hospital does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Appendix Cancer Canada.
Appendix Cancer Care: CRS/HIPEC Surgery Centres in Canada
Western Canada
Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) and BC Cancer (Vancouver, BC)
- BC Peritoneal Malignancy Program
- HIPEC provider since 2013
- Surgical Oncologists:
Tom Baker Cancer Centre (Calgary, AB)/ Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre
- HIPEC provider in Alberta since 2007
- Surgical Oncologists:
- Dr. Lloyd Mack
- Dr. Bouchard-Fourtier
Grey Nuns Hospital (Edmonton, AB)
- HIPEC provider in Edmonton since 2009
- Surgical Oncologists:
- Dr. Erika Haase
- Dr. Kevin Klingbeil
Central Canada
Mount Sinai Hospital (Toronto, ON)
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancy Program
- HIPEC provider since 2011
- Surgical Oncologists:
Eastern Canada
QEII Health Sciences Centre (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
- Atlantic Peritoneal Oncology Program
- HIPEC provider since 2010
- Surgical Oncologists:
- Dr. Gregory Knapp
- Dr. Ashley Drohan