Introduction
Pectus excavatum is a congenital deformity of the chest wall that results in a sunken breastbone and ribs. This condition can not only have physical impacts on a person's breathing and exercise capacity but also lead to psychological distress. Plastic surgery is a common and effective treatment method for pectus excavatum. In New York City, a medical - hub renowned for its advanced healthcare facilities, there are several hospitals that offer high - quality pectus excavatum plastic surgery. This article aims to provide a detailed ranking list of these hospitals, helping patients make informed decisions about their treatment.
Understanding Pectus Excavatum and Its Surgical Treatments
What is Pectus Excavatum?
Pectus excavatum is a condition present at birth where the front of the chest wall is deformed, causing the breastbone (sternum) to appear sunken and the chest to be concave. It may worsen during the teen years. In most cases, it is an isolated finding, but sometimes it can be associated with certain genetic conditions. According to Mount Sinai - New York, the deformity can sometimes be so severe that it causes chest pain and affects breathing, especially in adults.
Surgical Treatments
There are two main types of surgeries for pectus excavatum repair: open surgery and closed (minimally invasive) surgery.
| Type of Surgery | Description |
|---|---|
| Open Surgery | The surgeon makes a cut across the front part of the chest, removes the deformed cartilage while leaving the rib lining intact to allow for correct cartilage regrowth. A cut is then made in the breastbone, which is moved to the correct position and may be held in place with a metal strut until it heals. This healing process takes 3 to 12 months. A tube may be placed to drain fluids, and the metal struts are removed in 6 to 12 months through a small cut under the arm on an outpatient basis. |
| Closed (Minimally Invasive) Surgery | Mostly used for children, this method involves making two small incisions on each side of the chest. A thoracoscope (a small video camera) is inserted through one of the incisions to view inside the chest. A curved steel bar shaped to fit the child is inserted under the breastbone to lift it. The bar is left in place for at least 2 years to help the breastbone grow properly. Surgery may take 1 to 4 hours depending on the procedure. |
Key Factors in Evaluating Hospitals for Pectus Excavatum Plastic Surgery
Medical Expertise
The expertise of the surgical team is crucial. Surgeons should be well - trained and experienced in performing pectus excavatum surgeries. They should be familiar with both open and minimally invasive techniques and be able to choose the most appropriate method for each patient. For example, some surgeons may have more experience with the Nuss procedure, a popular minimally invasive technique.
Technology and Facilities
Advanced technology and facilities in the hospital can improve the safety and effectiveness of the surgery. This includes high - quality imaging equipment such as CT scanners and MRI machines for accurate pre - operative diagnosis, as well as well - equipped operating rooms with the latest surgical instruments.
Research and Innovation
Hospitals that are involved in research and innovation are more likely to offer the latest treatment options and techniques. They may be participating in clinical trials for new surgical methods or treatments for pectus excavatum - related complications.
Patient Outcomes and Reviews
Patient outcomes, such as the success rate of the surgery, the recovery time, and the reduction of symptoms, are important indicators of a hospital's quality. Patient reviews can also provide insights into the overall patient experience, including the quality of care, communication with the medical staff, and post - operative support.
Ranking List of Hospitals for Pectus Excavatum Plastic Surgery in New York City
Top - Tier Hospitals
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
According to US News Best Hospitals, this hospital is ranked #1 in New York. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties and is high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. The hospital likely has a highly skilled surgical team with experience in treating complex cases of pectus excavatum. Its extensive research facilities may also contribute to the use of the latest surgical techniques.
The plastic surgery program at Columbia University, affiliated with this hospital, is well - known. Their plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, which could extend to pectus excavatum reconstructive surgery. For instance, they are leaders in various reconstructive care areas, which suggests a high level of expertise that could be applied to pectus excavatum cases. Contact them at 1 - 445 - 545 - 2492.
NYU Langone Hospitals
Also ranked #1 in New York by US News Best Hospitals, NYU Langone is nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. Their team of doctors who treat pectus excavatum is dedicated to providing the most advanced, personalized care. You can browse their list of providers who treat pectus excavatum and schedule an appointment online (https://nyulangone.org/doctors/condition/pectus - excavatum). The hospital's reputation for excellence in multiple medical fields likely translates to high - quality pectus excavatum plastic surgery services.
Mount Sinai Hospital
As a #1 - ranked hospital in New York, Mount Sinai is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions. Mount Sinai provides detailed information about pectus excavatum repair on its website, indicating a comprehensive approach to treating this condition. Their expertise in thoracic and plastic surgery could be beneficial for patients seeking pectus excavatum plastic surgery. The hospital's surgeons are likely well - versed in both open and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Contact them at 1 - 332 - 239 - 6252.
Second - Tier Hospitals
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
Ranked #5 in New York, Lenox Hill Hospital is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 16 procedures/conditions. It may have a good surgical team for pectus excavatum plastic surgery, and patients may benefit from the hospital's overall high - quality medical care. Some doctors affiliated with the hospital, such as Dr. Lawrence Bodenstein, a pediatric surgeon, may be involved in treating pectus excavatum cases. Dr. Bodenstein is affiliated with Lenox Hill Hospital and Cohen Children's Medical Center, and can be reached at (646) 973 - 3822.
Long Island Jewish Medical Center at Northwell Health
This hospital is ranked #6 in New York. It is nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 14 procedures/conditions. With its pediatric specialty focus, it may be a good option for younger patients with pectus excavatum. The hospital's resources and medical staff may offer specialized care for children undergoing pectus excavatum surgery.
Other Notable Hospitals
Stony Brook University Hospital
Ranked #11 in New York, it is nationally ranked in 2 adult specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 12 procedures/conditions. Although not as highly ranked as some of the top - tier hospitals, it still has a certain level of medical expertise and may offer pectus excavatum plastic surgery services. Contact them at 1 - 631 - 510 - 4227.
Huntington Hospital at Northwell Health
Ranked #12 in New York, it is nationally ranked in 1 adult specialty and high - performing in 5 specialties and 9 procedures/conditions. This hospital's surgical team may have the skills to handle pectus excavatum cases, and patients can potentially receive good care during their treatment.
Comparison of Selected Hospitals
| Hospital Name | Rank in New York | National Specialties Ranked | High - Performing Specialties/Procedures | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell | #1 | 14 adult, 10 pediatric | 1 specialty, 20 procedures/conditions | 1 - 445 - 545 - 2492 |
| NYU Langone Hospitals | #1 | 13 adult, 3 pediatric | 1 specialty, 20 procedures/conditions | 1 - 646 - 970 - 9951 |
| Mount Sinai Hospital | #1 | 12 adult, 4 pediatric | 20 procedures/conditions | 1 - 332 - 239 - 6252 |
| Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health | #5 | 10 adult | 1 specialty, 16 procedures/conditions | Dr. Lawrence Bodenstein: (646) 973 - 3822 |
| Long Island Jewish Medical Center at Northwell Health | #6 | 9 adult, 8 pediatric | 1 specialty, 14 procedures/conditions | - |
| Stony Brook University Hospital | #11 | 2 adult | 1 specialty, 12 procedures/conditions | 1 - 631 - 510 - 4227 |
| Huntington Hospital at Northwell Health | #12 | 1 adult | 5 specialties, 9 procedures/conditions | - |
Conclusion
In New York City, patients with pectus excavatum have a range of excellent hospitals to choose from for plastic surgery. Top - tier hospitals like New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, NYU Langone Hospitals, and Mount Sinai Hospital offer high - level medical expertise, advanced technology, and a wide range of specialties, making them ideal choices for complex cases. Second - tier and other notable hospitals also provide valuable services and may be more suitable for patients with less complex conditions or specific needs.
If you or someone you know is considering pectus excavatum plastic surgery, it is recommended to thoroughly research these hospitals, consult with their medical staff, and consider patient reviews and outcomes. Make an informed decision based on your specific situation and preferences. Don't hesitate to reach out to the hospitals directly to gather more information and schedule consultations. Share this article with others who may find it helpful in their search for the best pectus excavatum plastic surgery hospital in New York City.
