Introduction
Pectus excavatum is a congenital deformity of the front of the chest wall that causes a sunken breastbone (sternum) and ribs. It is also called funnel or sunken chest and may worsen during the teen years. While most cases of mild pectus excavatum do not cause significant health problems, some individuals may experience chest pain, breathing difficulties, or self - esteem issues. In New York City, there are several hospitals renowned for their expertise in correcting this condition. In this article, we will explore the top 3 hospitals for mild pectus excavatum correction.
Understanding Pectus Excavatum
What is Pectus Excavatum?
Pectus excavatum is a condition where the breastbone (sternum) appears sunken and the chest concave. According to Mount Sinai - New York, the majority of these cases are not associated with any other condition (isolated findings). However, some genetic conditions may include pectus excavatum.
Types of Treatment
There are two main types of surgery to repair pectus excavatum: open surgery and closed (minimally invasive) surgery. The closed method, such as the Nuss procedure, is often preferred for children and is less invasive compared to open surgery. During open surgery, the surgeon makes a cut across the front part of the chest, removes the deformed cartilage, and repositions the breastbone. In the closed method, a curved steel bar is inserted through small incisions under the breastbone to lift it and help it grow properly.
Top 3 Hospitals for Mild Pectus Excavatum Correction in New York City
1. NewYork - Presbyterian Queens
Overview
NewYork - Presbyterian Queens is a leading institution when it comes to treating thoracic disorders, including pectus excavatum. The hospital has earned a three - star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) for patient care and outcomes in isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures, placing it among the elite for heart bypass surgery in the United States and Canada.
Expertise in Pectus Excavatum
The hospital's thoracic surgeons, in collaboration with Weill Cornell Medicine, provide the latest in surgical techniques and comprehensive care for patients with diseases of the lung, trachea, esophagus, chest wall, and mediastinum. For pectus excavatum, they offer the minimally invasive Nuss procedure. The multidisciplinary team, which includes 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, collaborates to deliver seamless, high - quality care to patients before, during, and after their hospital stay.
Benefits of Treatment at NewYork - Presbyterian Queens
One of the main advantages of getting treatment at this hospital is its state - of - the - art minimally invasive thoracic surgery program. The majority of patients are able to have their surgery 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 pectus excavatum, as it allows for a faster and less traumatic recovery.
Surgeons
Surgeons like Benjamin Enoch Lee, M.D., an associate attending cardiothoracic surgeon and associate professor of clinical cardiothoracic surgery, and Oliver S. Chow, M.D., an assistant attending cardiothoracic surgeon and assistant professor of clinical cardiothoracic surgery, are part of the team at NewYork - Presbyterian Queens. They are board - certified, highly trained, and committed to providing outstanding patient - centered care.
2. Mount Sinai Hospital
Overview
Mount Sinai Hospital in New York is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties, according to US News Best Hospitals. It has a wealth of resources and expertise in treating a wide range of medical conditions, including pectus excavatum.
Expertise in Pectus Excavatum
The hospital provides detailed information about pectus excavatum repair. They offer both open and closed surgical methods for correcting the condition. The surgical team is well - versed in the latest techniques and can guide patients and their families through the entire treatment process, from pre - operative evaluations to post - operative care. For example, before the surgery, patients undergo a complete medical exam and various tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, pulmonary function tests, and CT scan or MRI of the chest, to ensure they are suitable candidates for the procedure.
Benefits of Treatment at Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai has a reputation for high - quality care and research. Their team of experts stays updated with the latest advancements in the field of pectus excavatum treatment. The hospital also has a comprehensive pain management plan in place for patients after surgery. During the recovery period, patients are closely monitored by a team of nurses and doctors to ensure a smooth healing process.
3. Columbia University’s Surgical Lung & Chest Care Program
Overview
As part of Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York - Presbyterian, this program is consistently named one of New York’s top hospitals and one of the top ten medical centers in the nation. It provides the most up - to - date options for all chest conditions, from the extremely common to the most rare and complex.
Expertise in Pectus Excavatum
The program's thoracic surgery team is highly experienced in treating pectus excavatum. They take a personalized approach to each patient, considering factors such as the severity of the deformity, the patient's age, and overall health. Columbia also has a strong focus on research and innovation, which means patients may have access to the latest treatment techniques and clinical trials related to pectus excavatum correction.
Benefits of Treatment at Columbia University’s Program
Patients at Columbia can expect a high level of individualized care. The team's commitment to putting people first means that they not only treat the physical condition but also address the emotional and psychological aspects of having pectus excavatum. Additionally, the program's affiliation with a top - ranked university provides access to a vast network of experts in various fields, which can contribute to a more comprehensive treatment plan.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Pectus Excavatum Correction
Expertise of the Surgeons
It is crucial to choose a hospital with surgeons who have extensive experience in performing pectus excavatum correction surgeries. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have a proven track record of successful procedures. For example, at the Center of Excellence for Pectus, Dr. Barry Losasso has performed over 1,400 minimally invasive Nuss procedures to correct pectus excavatum.
Treatment Options
Consider the hospital's available treatment options. Some hospitals may offer only open surgery, while others may provide minimally invasive techniques as well. Minimally invasive procedures generally result in less pain, shorter recovery times, and fewer complications, making them a preferred choice for many patients, especially those with mild pectus excavatum.
Multidisciplinary Approach
A hospital that takes a multidisciplinary approach to treatment is beneficial. This means that a team of different specialists, such as surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and physical therapists, work together to provide comprehensive care. For instance, at NewYork - Presbyterian Queens, a large team of experts collaborates to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
Patient Reviews and Reputation
Read patient reviews and look at the hospital's reputation in the medical community. A hospital with positive reviews and a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care. You can also check rankings from organizations like US News Best Hospitals to get an idea of the hospital's standing.
Cost and Insurance
Understand the cost of the treatment and how it is covered by your insurance. Different hospitals may have different pricing structures, and it is important to ensure that you are aware of all the costs involved, including pre - operative tests, surgery, and post - operative care.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Care for Pectus Excavatum Correction
Pre - operative Care
Before the surgery, patients typically undergo a thorough medical evaluation. This may include an electrocardiogram (ECG) and possibly an echocardiogram to assess heart function, pulmonary function tests to check for breathing problems, and a CT scan or MRI of the chest to determine the severity of the pectus excavatum. Patients are also asked to inform the surgeon about any medications they are taking, including over - the - counter drugs, herbs, and supplements, as well as any allergies they may have. In the days leading up to the surgery, patients may be asked to stop taking certain blood - thinning drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and warfarin.
Post - operative Care
After the surgery, patients usually stay in the hospital for a few days, typically 3 to 7 days. Pain management is an important part of the post - operative care. In the first few days, patients may receive strong pain medicine through an intravenous (IV) line or an epidural catheter. As the pain improves, they may switch to oral medications. Patients are also encouraged to sit up, take deep breaths, and walk as soon as possible after surgery to aid in the healing process. They may have tubes in the chest to drain extra fluid, which are removed once the drainage stops. At home, patients need to follow the doctor's instructions regarding activity restrictions, wound care, and follow - up appointments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, NewYork - Presbyterian Queens, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Columbia University’s Surgical Lung & Chest Care Program are among the top hospitals in New York City for mild pectus excavatum correction. Each hospital offers unique advantages, such as advanced surgical techniques, a multidisciplinary approach to care, and a strong reputation in the medical community. When choosing a hospital for pectus excavatum correction, it is important to consider factors such as the expertise of the surgeons, available treatment options, and the hospital's overall approach to patient care. By making an informed decision, patients can ensure that they receive the best possible treatment for their condition.
If you or someone you know is considering pectus excavatum correction, we encourage you to research these hospitals further, schedule consultations with their specialists, and take the first step towards a better quality of life. Share this article with others who may benefit from this information and explore related topics to learn more about the latest advancements in pectus excavatum treatment.
