Introduction
Pectus excavatum, a condition where the chest sinks inward, can significantly impact a child's physical and psychological well - being. In New York City, several hospitals stand out for their excellence in treating pediatric pectus excavatum. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the top five hospitals in the city for this condition, including their treatment approaches, medical teams, and unique features.What is Pediatric Pectus Excavatum?
Pediatric pectus excavatum is a congenital chest wall deformity. It usually occurs when several ribs and the sternum grow abnormally, resulting in a caved - in or sunken appearance of the chest. It is about five times more common in boys than girls and is often noted at birth as a mild condition, which can become more pronounced as the child grows, especially during the early teenage years when bones grow rapidly. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath (especially on exertion), mitral valve prolapse, and associated skeletal growth syndromes.Top Five Hospitals for Pediatric Pectus Excavatum Treatment in New York City
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai is a well - known institution in the medical field. Their team of surgeons has come together to diagnose and manage chest wall conditions, including pectus excavatum. They take a multi - disciplinary approach, collaborating with world - class colleagues in pediatric and adult cardiology, pulmonology, genetics, orthopedic surgery, radiology, anesthesiology, and orthopedics. Additionally, they work with interventionists and physical therapists to provide the latest treatment methods and surgical innovations.
Treatment Approaches
They use minimally invasive approaches whenever possible to correct pectus excavatum. Sometimes, a brace or other non - invasive methods may be sufficient, but in more severe cases, surgery will be required. They also focus on individualized diagnosis and treatment, taking into account both the medical issues and the psychosocial concerns of the child and the family.
Research and Clinical Trials
Mount Sinai conducts research to develop more effective treatments and explore ways to prevent or improve chest wall conditions. They have already developed specialized instrumentation for chest wall surgery, which has improved the process and outcomes. Currently, they are using whole genome analysis to explore hereditary aspects of chest wall conditions. Families interested in participating in research or supporting these efforts can call 212 - 844 - 8840.
NYU Langone Health
NYU Langone's team of doctors is dedicated to providing the most advanced, personalized care for children with pectus excavatum. Their team is committed to understanding the unique needs of each patient and tailoring treatment plans accordingly.
Medical Team
The hospital has a group of experienced providers who specialize in treating pectus excavatum. Families can browse their list of providers and schedule an appointment online. This ease of access allows families to quickly connect with the medical experts they need.
ColumbiaDoctors Children's Health
Columbia's multidisciplinary medical team is highly skilled in evaluating, monitoring, and treating children and adolescents with a range of chest wall anomalies, including pectus excavatum. Their team consists of pediatric surgeons, along with doctors from other pediatric specialties such as orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, cardiology, pulmonology, genetics, and radiology, as well as nurse practitioners, orthotists, and physical therapists.
Treatment Methods
They have extensive experience in using a minimally invasive approach to treat pectus excavatum. In the case of pectus carinatum, they often address the condition with bracing rather than surgery. For children with severe, complex abnormalities affecting both the chest wall and spine, they can provide comprehensive care in collaboration with specialists from orthopedic surgery and pulmonology.
Patient - Centered Care
The team understands that pectus excavatum can have profound psychosocial effects on affected adolescents. They ensure that patients and their families are well - informed throughout the treatment process and are actively involved in decision - making.
Lenox Hill Hospital (with Dr. Lawrence Bodenstein)
Dr. Lawrence Bodenstein, a pediatric surgeon affiliated with Lenox Hill Hospital and Cohen Children's Medical Center, is a prominent figure in the treatment of pectus excavatum. He has the expertise and experience to handle cases of this condition in children.
Medical Expertise
Dr. Bodenstein can provide specialized care based on the individual needs of each patient. His training and knowledge enable him to offer both surgical and non - surgical treatment options, ensuring the best possible outcome for the child. Families can reach him at (646) 973 - 3822.
New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center (with Dr. Lyall A. Gorenstein)
Dr. Lyall A. Gorenstein, who practices at New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center, specializes in thoracic surgery, with a special focus on minimally invasive thoracic surgery, hyperhidrosis - palmar, and pectus excavatum.
Treatment Focus
His expertise in minimally invasive techniques is particularly beneficial for children with pectus excavatum, as it can lead to smaller incisions, reduced scarring, and faster recovery times. He is board - certified in surgery and thoracic surgery, bringing a high level of professional competence to the treatment of patients. Families can contact him at 866 - 721 - 8718.
Comparative Analysis of the Top Five Hospitals
| Hospital | Medical Team | Treatment Approaches | Research Focus | Patient - Centered Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Sinai - New York | Surgeons, plus experts in cardiology, pulmonology, etc. | Minimally invasive surgery when needed, individualized treatment | Whole genome analysis for hereditary aspects, specialized instrumentation development | Consideration of psychosocial concerns, active listening to families |
| NYU Langone Health | Specialized providers for pectus excavatum | Advanced, personalized care | Not mentioned | Easy online appointment scheduling |
| ColumbiaDoctors Children's Health | Multidisciplinary team including various pediatric specialties | Minimally invasive for pectus excavatum, bracing for pectus carinatum | Not mentioned | Involving patients and families in decision - making |
| Lenox Hill Hospital (Dr. Lawrence Bodenstein) | Single expert pediatric surgeon | Specialized surgical and non - surgical options | Not mentioned | One - on - one care from an experienced surgeon |
| New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center (Dr. Lyall A. Gorenstein) | Expert thoracic surgeon | Minimally invasive thoracic surgery for pectus excavatum | Not mentioned | High - level professional competence in a well - known institution |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
Medical Expertise
The experience and qualifications of the medical team are crucial. Look for hospitals that have a team of surgeons and specialists who are well - versed in treating pediatric pectus excavatum. Consider the hospital's track record in terms of successful treatments and the number of cases they handle each year.
Treatment Approaches
Find out whether the hospital offers minimally invasive surgical options, as these can lead to less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recoveries for children. Also, inquire about non - surgical treatment options and how they are used in different cases.
Research and Innovation
Hospitals that are involved in research and clinical trials are more likely to offer the latest treatment methods and technological advancements. This can potentially lead to better outcomes for your child.
Patient - Centered Care
Choose a hospital that takes into account the physical, emotional, and psychological well - being of your child. A hospital that actively involves you and your child in the decision - making process and provides support throughout the treatment journey is ideal.
Location and Accessibility
Consider the location of the hospital and how easy it is for you and your child to get there for appointments, pre - operative testing, and post - operative follow - ups. Proximity to your home can also be important for the convenience of the family during the recovery period.
