Thoracic Surgery
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Overview
The Division of Thoracic Surgery at The Ottawa Hospital provides specialized care for patients with chest conditions.
These include lung and esophageal cancers, chest injuries and other complex diseases. Our team works closely with experts across many fields to ensure patients receive coordinated, high-quality care at every stage—from diagnosis to recovery.
Care is delivered at the Chest Diseases Centre at the General Campus, where patients benefit from advanced diagnostic services, outpatient clinics and a dedicated inpatient unit. Physician referrals are required for consultation.
Services
The Division of Thoracic Surgery at The Ottawa Hospital offers specialized care for conditions affecting the lungs, esophagus, chest wall and mediastinum.
Thoracic Oncology Program
A team diagnoses and treats cancers of the lung, esophagus, chest wall and surrounding areas. Patients benefit from coordinated care and timely access through the Cancer Assessment Clinic.
Benign Esophageal Diseases
Patients with non-cancerous esophageal conditions receive specialized testing and surgical care. The Esophageal Function Lab helps guide treatment using both traditional and minimally invasive techniques.
Minimally Invasive and VATS Surgery
Minimally invasive procedures are used to treat lung conditions, esophageal disorders and chest diseases. These techniques often reduce recovery time and improve comfort after surgery.
Thymectomy for Myasthenia Gravis
Surgical treatment for generalized myasthenia gravis is provided in collaboration with neurologists. Care includes pre- and post-operative support to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Interventional Thoracic Radiology
Advanced imaging and procedures help diagnose and treat chest conditions. Services include biopsies, fluid drainage and tumour ablation, supporting faster diagnosis and less invasive treatment options.
Research and education
The Division of Thoracic Surgery is committed to advancing care through research and education. Patients, medical students and surgical residents benefit from structured learning and clinical pathways supported by nurse educators. Residents are involved in research projects and clinical trials, including those led by the Canadian Cancer Society Research Institute. This focus on education and evidence-based care helps improve outcomes and ensures high standards in thoracic surgery.
Thoracic Surgery Residency Program
The Ottawa Hospital’s Thoracic Surgery Residency Program has been training future surgeons since 1983. Residents gain hands-on experience through a high volume of clinical cases, regular teaching rounds and multidisciplinary meetings. The program is closely connected with the Ottawa Heart Institute and includes exposure to thoracic oncology, radiology, pathology and pulmonary medicine. Residents also participate in research and academic activities, helping them build strong clinical and leadership skills in thoracic surgery.
Team
Dr. Sudhir Sundaresan
Physician, Thoracic Surgery
Dr. Donna Elizabeth Maziak
Physician, Thoracic Surgery
Dr. Farid M. Shamji
Director of Esophageal Function Laboratory
Dr. Sebastien Gilbert
Physician, Thoracic Surgery
Dr. Andrew Seely
Physician, Thoracic SurgeryContact us
Division of Thoracic Surgery
Dr. Donna Maziak
613-737-8899 ext. 74035
The Ottawa Hospital – General Campus
Box 700
501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6