Introduction
Pectus excavatum is a congenital deformity of the front of the chest wall that causes a sunken breastbone (sternum) and ribs. While mild to moderate cases may not always require surgical intervention, in some situations, surgery can significantly improve the patient's appearance, breathing, and overall quality of life. In New York City, a bustling metropolis renowned for its world - class medical facilities, there are several hospitals that excel in performing pectus excavatum surgeries. This article will present a ranking list of these hospitals and delve into their expertise, facilities, and patient - care standards.
Understanding Pectus Excavatum
Pectus excavatum, also known as funnel or sunken chest, may worsen during the teen years. It can be an isolated finding in most cases, but in some instances, it is associated with certain genetic conditions. There are two main types of surgery to repair pectus excavatum: open surgery and closed (minimally invasive) surgery. Open surgery involves making a cut across the front part of the chest, removing the deformed cartilage, moving the breastbone to the correct location, and using a metal strut for support. Closed surgery, often used for children, involves making two small incisions on each side of the chest and inserting a curved steel bar under the breastbone to lift it. The bar is left in place for at least 2 years to allow the breastbone to grow properly (Source: Mount Sinai - New York).
Top - Ranked Hospitals for Mild to Moderate Pectus Excavatum Surgery in New York City
1. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell stands at the forefront in the field of treating pectus excavatum. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties, and high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. The hospital is affiliated with two prestigious medical institutions, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, which provides a wealth of resources and expertise.
For pectus excavatum surgery, the hospital's team of thoracic surgeons are highly trained and experienced. They have access to the latest surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures. The multidisciplinary approach at New York - Presbyterian involves a team of thoracic surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, neurologists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, dedicated thoracic intensive care nurses, respiratory therapists, speech therapists, and social workers. This comprehensive team ensures that patients receive seamless, high - quality care before, during, and after their hospital stay.
One of the hospital's notable features is its advanced minimally invasive thoracic surgery program. The majority of patients are able to have their surgeries performed through a minimally invasive approach, which results in less blood loss, less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and a quicker recovery and return to normal activities. This is especially beneficial for patients with mild to moderate pectus excavatum, as it minimizes the impact of surgery on their daily lives.
2. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is another leading institution in New York City for pectus excavatum surgery. Nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties, and high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions, it has a strong reputation for its surgical expertise. The hospital's surgical team is well - versed in both open and minimally invasive techniques for pectus excavatum repair.
Mount Sinai provides detailed information about the surgery process, from pre - operative evaluations to post - operative care. Before the surgery, patients undergo a complete medical exam and various medical tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), possibly an echocardiogram, pulmonary function tests, and a CT scan or MRI of the chest. The hospital also educates patients and their families about the risks associated with the surgery, including reactions to medicines, breathing problems, bleeding, blood clots, infection, injury to the heart, lung collapse, pain, and the possible return of the deformity.
After the surgery, the hospital offers comprehensive care to ensure a smooth recovery. Patients typically stay in the hospital for 3 to 7 days, depending on the progress of their recovery. Pain management is a priority, with patients receiving strong pain medicine in the vein (through an IV) or through a catheter placed in the spine (an epidural) in the first few days, followed by oral pain medications. The hospital also encourages early mobilization of patients to aid in the healing process.
3. NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals is nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties, and high - performing in 1 specialty and 21 procedures/conditions. The hospital has a team of doctors dedicated to providing the most advanced, personalized care for patients with pectus excavatum. Their approach combines the latest medical research with individualized treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient.
NYU Langone's surgeons are trained in state - of - the - art surgical techniques, including minimally invasive options for pectus excavatum repair. The hospital's commitment to patient - centered care is evident in its comprehensive pre - and post - operative support services. Patients are provided with detailed information about the surgery, including what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. They also have access to a team of specialists who can address any concerns or questions they may have throughout the treatment process.
In addition to surgical expertise, NYU Langone offers rehabilitation programs to help patients regain their strength and functionality after the surgery. These programs are tailored to the individual needs of the patient and are designed to promote a full recovery.
4. North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health
North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties and is high - performing in 15 procedures/conditions. The hospital has a long - standing reputation for providing high - quality surgical care, including pectus excavatum surgery. Their surgical team consists of experienced thoracic surgeons who are proficient in the latest surgical techniques.
The hospital emphasizes a patient - centered approach, with a focus on providing personalized care. From the initial consultation to the post - operative follow - up, patients receive individualized attention. The hospital also has advanced facilities and resources to support the surgical process, including state - of - the - art operating rooms and diagnostic equipment.
North Shore University Hospital offers a comprehensive pre - operative assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient. They consider factors such as the severity of the pectus excavatum, the patient's overall health, and their individual goals. After the surgery, the hospital provides extensive post - operative care, including pain management, wound care, and rehabilitation guidance.
5. Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 10 specialties and is high - performing in 1 specialty and 16 procedures/conditions. The hospital has a dedicated team of surgeons who have experience in performing pectus excavatum surgeries. Their approach to surgery is based on the latest medical advancements and focuses on achieving the best possible outcomes for patients.
Lenox Hill Hospital provides a supportive environment for patients undergoing pectus excavatum surgery. They offer pre - operative education to help patients and their families understand the procedure and what to expect. The hospital's nursing staff is trained to provide high - quality care during the patient's hospital stay, ensuring that they are comfortable and well - taken care of.
After the surgery, the hospital offers follow - up care to monitor the patient's recovery and address any complications that may arise. They also provide referrals to rehabilitation services if needed to help patients regain their normal activities as quickly as possible.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Pectus Excavatum Surgery
1. Surgical Expertise
The experience and skill of the surgical team are of utmost importance. Look for hospitals where the surgeons have performed a significant number of pectus excavatum surgeries. Check their success rates and patient outcomes. Hospitals with a large volume of surgeries are more likely to have surgeons who are well - versed in the latest techniques and can handle any complications that may arise during the procedure.
2. Multidisciplinary Approach
Pectus excavatum surgery often requires a team of specialists, including thoracic surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and physical therapists. A hospital that offers a multidisciplinary approach can provide comprehensive care to patients. The different specialists can work together to develop a personalized treatment plan and ensure that all aspects of the patient's health are addressed before, during, and after the surgery.
3. Facility and Technology
State - of - the - art facilities and advanced technology can enhance the safety and effectiveness of the surgery. Look for hospitals with modern operating rooms equipped with the latest surgical instruments and imaging technology. Minimally invasive techniques, which require specialized equipment, can result in less pain and a faster recovery for patients.
4. Patient - Centered Care
The quality of patient - centered care is an important factor. A hospital that focuses on the patient's needs and provides clear communication throughout the treatment process can help reduce anxiety and improve the overall patient experience. Look for hospitals that offer pre - operative education, post - operative support, and follow - up care.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Care in New York City Hospitals
Pre - operative Care
Most hospitals in New York City follow a comprehensive pre - operative protocol for pectus excavatum surgery. This typically includes a complete medical exam to assess the patient's overall health. Medical tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, pulmonary function tests, and a CT scan or MRI of the chest are commonly performed to evaluate the heart, lungs, and chest structure.
Patients are also required to inform the surgical team about any medications they are taking, including over - the - counter drugs, herbs, vitamins, and supplements. They need to disclose any allergies they may have to medicine, latex, tape, or skin cleanser. About 7 days before surgery, patients may be asked to stop taking blood - thinning drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and warfarin.
On the day of surgery, patients are usually instructed not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before. They may be given specific drugs with a small sip of water as directed by the surgeon. The surgeon will make sure the patient has no signs of illness before the surgery, and if the patient is ill, the surgery may be postponed.
Post - operative Care
After the surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days, usually 3 to 7 days. Pain management is a crucial part of post - operative care. In the first few days, patients may receive strong pain medicine in the vein (through an IV) or through a catheter placed in the spine (an epidural). After that, pain is usually managed with oral medications.
Patients may have tubes in the chest around the surgical cuts to drain extra fluid that collects from the procedure. These tubes are removed once they stop draining, usually after a few days. The day after surgery, patients are encouraged to sit up, take deep breaths, and get out of bed and walk to aid in the healing process.
At home, patients need to follow specific instructions for caring for the surgical wound and taking pain medicine. They are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities for a certain period and gradually increase their activities as they recover. Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.
Conclusion
In New York City, patients with mild to moderate pectus excavatum have access to some of the best hospitals in the world for surgical treatment. Hospitals such as New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, Mount Sinai Hospital, NYU Langone Hospitals, North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health, and Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health offer a combination of surgical expertise, advanced technology, and patient - centered care. When choosing a hospital for pectus excavatum surgery, patients should consider factors such as surgical expertise, multidisciplinary approach, facility and technology, and patient - centered care.
If you or a loved one is considering pectus excavatum surgery, we encourage you to do further research on these hospitals, consult with their specialists, and make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning about pectus excavatum surgery in New York City. You can also explore related topics such as the latest advancements in pectus excavatum surgery techniques and patient experiences after the surgery.
