Introduction
Pectus excavatum is a congenital chest wall deformity that results in a sunken or caved - in appearance of the breastbone and ribs. While mild cases may not cause significant physical symptoms, they can still have an impact on a patient's self - esteem and overall quality of life. In New York City, there are several world - class hospitals equipped to handle the diagnosis and treatment of mild pectus excavatum. This article will explore the top ten hospitals for mild pectus excavatum in New York City, discussing their services, expertise, and patient - centered care.
Understanding Mild Pectus Excavatum
Mild pectus excavatum is a relatively common condition, often present at birth or developing during puberty. It is caused by the abnormal growth of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone, which pulls the sternum inward. Unlike severe cases, mild pectus excavatum may not lead to significant functional impairments, such as reduced lung or heart capacity. However, it can still cause psychological distress, especially in children and adolescents, due to concerns about appearance.
Symptoms of mild pectus excavatum may include a slight depression in the chest, which may be more noticeable when the patient is lying flat. In some cases, patients may experience mild chest pain or discomfort, especially during physical activity. Diagnostic tools for pectus excavatum include visual examination, auscultation, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, pulmonary function testing, chest x - ray, CT - scan, and the Haller index, which measures the extent of the deformity (a normal Haller index is 2.5, and a value greater than 3.25 is generally considered severe).
The Top Ten Hospitals for Mild Pectus Excavatum in New York City
1. NYU Langone Health
NYU Langone's team of doctors is dedicated to providing the most advanced, personalized care for pectus excavatum patients. They have a comprehensive approach to treating this condition, starting with an accurate diagnosis using the latest diagnostic tools. Once diagnosed, their experts will work closely with patients to develop a treatment plan that suits their specific needs.
For mild pectus excavatum cases, they may offer non - surgical options such as close monitoring and advice on exercises that can help strengthen the chest muscles. In some cases, if surgery is deemed necessary, their surgeons are highly skilled in both minimally invasive and traditional surgical techniques. NYU Langone also emphasizes patient education, ensuring that patients and their families understand the condition, treatment options, and expected outcomes.
Patients can easily browse their list of providers who treat pectus excavatum on their website and schedule an appointment online, making the process convenient and efficient.
2. Columbia University's Surgical Lung & Chest Care Program
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. Their thoracic surgery team is at the forefront of treating chest conditions, including pectus excavatum.
They are leaders in the field, having developed the largest lung transplant program in the North Atlantic, established a special program addressing lung disease in women, and created the world's only comprehensive center for diaphragm disorders. For pectus excavatum, they offer state - of - the - art surgical options and personalized care plans.
Their team of specialists 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. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care before, during, and after treatment. Existing patients can call (212) 305 - 3408, and new patients can call (212) 304 - 7535 or request an appointment online.
3. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai offers a range of services for pectus excavatum repair. They provide detailed information about the condition and the available treatment options. There are two types of surgeries for pectus excavatum repair at Mount Sinai: open surgery and closed (minimally invasive) surgery.
Open surgery is a more traditional approach where the surgeon makes an incision across the front part of the chest, removes the deformed cartilage, repositions the breastbone, and may use a metal strut to hold it in place. The minimally invasive approach, used mostly for children, involves making two small incisions on each side of the chest, inserting a curved steel bar under the breastbone to lift it, and leaving the bar in place for at least 2 years.
Before the surgery, patients undergo a complete medical exam and tests, including an electrocardiogram, pulmonary function tests, and a CT scan or MRI of the chest. The hospital also provides detailed pre - and post - operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process. After the surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for 3 to 7 days, and pain management is carefully monitored.
4. NewYork - Presbyterian Queens
The thoracic surgery program at NewYork - Presbyterian Queens is one of the most sophisticated minimally invasive thoracic surgery programs in the world. They offer a minimally invasive Nuss procedure for pectus excavatum, which is a cutting - edge approach.
Using state - of - the - art diagnostic, surgical, and intensive care units, their world - class thoracic surgeons provide the latest in surgical techniques and comprehensive care for patients with chest conditions. Their multidisciplinary team, including 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, works together to deliver seamless, high - quality care to patients.
The majority of their 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 who want to minimize the impact of treatment on their daily lives. The hospital is located at 56 - 45 Main Street Flushing, NY 11355, and the contact number is 718 - 670 - 2707.
5. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties. Its reputation for high - quality care extends to the treatment of pectus excavatum. The hospital has a team of experienced physicians and surgeons who are well - versed in the latest diagnostic and treatment methods for chest wall deformities.
They offer both surgical and non - surgical options for mild pectus excavatum cases. Non - surgical approaches may include physical therapy and regular follow - up appointments to monitor the progression of the condition. If surgery is recommended, the hospital's surgical team has the expertise to perform both minimally invasive and open procedures with high success rates. The hospital's commitment to patient - centered care ensures that patients and their families are involved in the decision - making process every step of the way.
Patients can contact the hospital at 1 - 332 - 239 - 6252. The hospital's location is New York, NY 10029 - 0310.
6. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
This hospital is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. It offers comprehensive care for pectus excavatum patients. The team of specialists at this hospital understands the physical and psychological impact of the condition and tailors treatment plans accordingly.
For mild pectus excavatum, they may start with a conservative approach, such as observation and lifestyle modifications. If surgery is necessary, they offer advanced surgical techniques, including the Nuss procedure and the modified Ravitch repair. The hospital's research - based approach ensures that patients have access to the latest advancements in pectus excavatum treatment. Existing patients can call for appropriate assistance, and new patients can reach out at (212) 304 - 7535 or request an appointment online.
7. North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health
North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties. The hospital has a dedicated team of healthcare professionals who are experienced in treating chest wall deformities, including pectus excavatum.
They offer a personalized approach to treatment, taking into account the patient's age, overall health, and the severity of the condition. For mild pectus excavatum, they may recommend non - surgical interventions such as physical therapy and chest - strengthening exercises. If surgery is the best option, their surgeons are skilled in performing minimally invasive procedures, which can lead to a faster recovery and less scarring. The hospital's commitment to research and innovation ensures that patients receive the highest level of care.
The hospital is located in Manhasset, NY 11030 - 3816.
8. NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. They have a comprehensive chest wall disorder program that includes the diagnosis and treatment of pectus excavatum.
Their team of experts uses the latest diagnostic tools to accurately assess the condition and develop a customized treatment plan. For mild pectus excavatum cases, they may offer non - surgical management options, such as watchful waiting and physical therapy. Their surgeons are also proficient in performing advanced surgical procedures, including minimally invasive techniques, if required. The hospital's patient - education initiatives help patients and their families make informed decisions about their treatment.
Patients can get more information about the hospital's services and schedule an appointment as per their convenience.
9. Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties. It has a team of skilled physicians and surgeons who are dedicated to treating pectus excavatum.
The hospital offers a range of treatment options for mild pectus excavatum, from non - surgical approaches to minimally invasive surgeries. They focus on providing high - quality, individualized care to each patient. The hospital's multidisciplinary team works together to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care, including pre - operative counseling, surgical treatment, and post - operative rehabilitation. Their goal is to improve the patient's quality of life and restore their confidence.
The hospital is located in New York, NY 10075 - 1850.
10. Hackensack University Medical Center at Hackensack Meridian Health
Hackensack University Medical Center at Hackensack Meridian Health is nationally ranked in 6 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties. They have a well - established chest wall surgery program that addresses pectus excavatum.
For mild pectus excavatum, they may offer non - surgical treatment options, such as bracing and physical therapy, as an initial approach. If surgery is needed, their surgeons are experienced in performing both minimally invasive and open procedures. The hospital's patient - centered care model ensures that patients are involved in every aspect of their treatment, from diagnosis to recovery. The hospital also provides support services to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of the condition.
Patients can contact the hospital at 1 - 229 - 537 - 2597, and the hospital is located in Hackensack, NJ 07601 - 1914.
Comparison of the Top Ten Hospitals
Hospital Name | National Rankings | Treatment Options | Multidisciplinary Team | Contact Information |
---|---|---|---|---|
NYU Langone Health | Nationally ranked in 13 specialties & 3 children's specialties, high - performing in 1 specialty & 21 procedures/conditions | Non - surgical monitoring, exercises, minimally invasive and traditional surgeries | Yes | Online appointment scheduling available |
Columbia University's Surgical Lung & Chest Care Program | Part of a top - ranked medical center | State - of - the - art surgical options, personalized care plans | Yes | Existing patients: (212) 305 - 3408; New patients: (212) 304 - 7535 or online |
Mount Sinai - New York | Not specified in context, but well - known | Open and minimally invasive surgeries, detailed pre - and post - operative care | Not fully detailed, but surgical team and medical staff involved | - |
NewYork - Presbyterian Queens | Not detailed in terms of overall national rank for pectus, but has a top - tier thoracic program | Minimally invasive Nuss procedure, other thoracic surgeries | Yes | 56 - 45 Main Street Flushing, NY 11355; 718 - 670 - 2707 |
Mount Sinai Hospital | Nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties | Surgical and non - surgical options | Yes | 1 - 332 - 239 - 6252; New York, NY 10029 - 0310 |
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell | Nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties | Conservative, surgical (Nuss and modified Ravitch) | Yes | Existing patients: call as appropriate; New patients: (212) 304 - 7535 or online |
North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health | Nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties | Non - surgical (physical therapy), minimally invasive surgeries | Yes | Manhasset, NY 11030 - 3816 |
NYU Langone Hospitals | Nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties | Non - surgical management, advanced surgical procedures | Yes | - |
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health | Nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties | Non - surgical to minimally invasive surgeries | Yes | New York, NY 10075 - 1850 |
Hackensack University Medical Center at Hackensack Meridian Health | Nationally ranked in 6 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties | Non - surgical (bracing, physical therapy), surgical | Yes | 1 - 229 - 537 - 2597; Hackensack, NJ 07601 - 1914 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Mild Pectus Excavatum
When choosing a hospital for the treatment of mild pectus excavatum, several factors should be considered:
- Expertise of the Medical Team: Look for hospitals with experienced surgeons and healthcare professionals who specialize in treating pectus excavatum. A multidisciplinary team that includes thoracic surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and physical therapists can provide comprehensive care.
- Treatment Options: Different hospitals may offer different treatment options, from non - surgical approaches to advanced surgical techniques. It's important to choose a hospital that offers the most appropriate treatment for your specific case.
- Patient - Centered Care: A hospital that values patient - centered care will involve you in the decision - making process, provide clear information about your condition and treatment options, and offer support services