Introduction

Pectus excavatum, a congenital deformity of the chest wall resulting in a sunken breastbone, can have significant physical and psychological impacts on affected individuals. For adults with this condition, surgical repair can often offer improved appearance, enhanced respiratory function, and increased quality of life. In New York City, a hub of world - class medical facilities, there are several hospitals that stand out for their expertise in adult pectus excavatum surgical repair. This article will explore the top hospitals in New York City for this specific procedure, based on various factors such as national rankings, specialty expertise, and patient outcomes.

Overview of Pectus Excavatum and Surgical Repair

What is Pectus Excavatum?

Pectus excavatum is a condition where the breastbone (sternum) appears sunken and the chest is concave. It is often present at birth and may worsen during the teen years. While the majority of cases are isolated findings, some genetic conditions can be associated with this deformity. The most common reason for pectus excavatum repair is to improve the appearance of the chest wall, and in severe cases, it can cause chest pain and affect breathing, particularly in adults.

Surgical Repair Options

There are two main types of surgery to repair pectus excavatum: open surgery and closed (minimally invasive) surgery. Open surgery involves making an incision across the front of the chest, removing the deformed cartilage, moving the breastbone to the correct position, and using a metal strut to hold it in place until healing occurs. The metal struts are typically removed 6 - 12 months later. Closed surgery, on the other hand, is mostly used for children and 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 to allow for proper growth of the breastbone.

Top Hospitals in New York City for Adult Pectus Excavatum Surgical Repair

New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell

New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell is a top - tier medical institution in New York City. According to U.S. News, it is ranked #1 in New York. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. The hospital's surgical excellence is well - recognized. For example, in the field of surgery, it has national rankings in specialties such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery. This broad range of surgical expertise may contribute to its ability to handle the complex aspects of adult pectus excavatum surgical repair, which may involve working around the heart, lungs, and other thoracic structures.

In terms of patient care, it meets high standards in various procedures and conditions. It is high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. The hospital is also recognized for its high - quality care in other areas related to pectus excavatum surgery, such as managing post - operative pain and ensuring proper healing of the chest wall.

Mount Sinai Hospital

Mount Sinai Hospital is another prominent hospital in New York City. It is ranked #1 in New York and is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties. The hospital is high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions. Mount Sinai has a team of experts who are experienced in treating a wide range of thoracic conditions, which is relevant to pectus excavatum surgery. Their knowledge of the chest anatomy and surgical techniques can be beneficial for adult patients undergoing pectus excavatum repair.

The hospital also offers comprehensive pre - and post - operative care. Before the surgery, patients can expect a thorough medical evaluation, including electrocardiograms, pulmonary function tests, and CT scans or MRIs of the chest. After the surgery, the hospital provides pain management, respiratory therapy, and follow - up care to ensure a successful recovery.

NYU Langone Hospitals

NYU Langone Hospitals are well - known for their specialty care. They are ranked #1 in New York and are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. NYU Langone has a team of doctors dedicated to providing the most advanced, personalized care for patients with pectus excavatum. The hospital offers access to the latest surgical techniques and technologies for pectus excavatum repair.

It is high - performing in 1 specialty and 21 procedures/conditions. In addition to surgical expertise, NYU Langone provides psychological support for patients, as pectus excavatum can have a significant impact on a patient's self - esteem. The hospital also has a strong research component, which means that patients may have access to the latest treatment options and clinical trials.

North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health

North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health in Manhasset, NY is also a notable institution. It is ranked #1 in New York and is nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties. The hospital is high - performing in 15 procedures/conditions. North Shore University Hospital has a multi - disciplinary team approach to patient care, which includes surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and respiratory therapists. This team approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care throughout the surgical process.

The hospital's experience in thoracic surgery and its high - performing status in related procedures suggest that it can provide quality care for adult pectus excavatum surgical repair. They also focus on patient education, ensuring that patients and their families understand the surgical procedure, recovery process, and potential risks.

Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health

Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health in New York, NY is ranked #5 in New York and is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties. It is high - performing in 1 specialty and 16 procedures/conditions. The hospital has a reputation for providing patient - centered care. Their surgical team has experience in various thoracic surgeries, which can be applied to pectus excavatum repair.

Lenox Hill Hospital also offers rehabilitation services after surgery, which can help patients regain strength and mobility in the chest area. The hospital's focus on comfort and recovery can contribute to a better overall patient experience during the treatment of pectus excavatum.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Adult Pectus Excavatum Surgical Repair

National Rankings and Specialties

As seen from the top hospitals in New York City, national rankings by organizations like U.S. News can be a good indicator of a hospital's overall quality and expertise. Hospitals that are nationally ranked in multiple adult specialties are more likely to have a well - rounded team of experts, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical staff who are experienced in handling complex surgical cases like adult pectus excavatum repair. For example, a hospital with high rankings in cardiothoracic surgery may be better equipped to deal with any potential cardiac issues that could arise during the procedure.

Patient Outcomes

Patient outcomes are crucial when choosing a hospital. This includes factors such as the success rate of the surgery, the rate of complications, and the length of hospital stay. Hospitals with a good track record of positive patient outcomes are more likely to provide high - quality care. Some hospitals may publish their patient outcome data, which can be a valuable resource for patients when making a decision. For instance, a lower rate of post - operative infections and a higher rate of satisfactory cosmetic results are important considerations for adult pectus excavatum repair.

Expertise of the Surgical Team

The expertise of the surgical team is perhaps the most important factor. Surgeons who have extensive experience in performing pectus excavatum surgeries are more likely to achieve better results. They are familiar with the nuances of the procedure, including how to handle different types of chest deformities and how to minimize risks. Some surgeons may have specific training or research interests in pectus excavatum repair, which can be an added advantage. For example, a surgeon who has developed new surgical techniques or who has participated in clinical trials related to pectus excavatum may offer more innovative treatment options.

Comprehensive Care Services

A hospital that offers comprehensive care services is more likely to provide a better patient experience. This includes pre - operative evaluations, psychological support, post - operative pain management, and rehabilitation services. For example, pre - operative evaluations are necessary to assess the patient's overall health and determine the most appropriate surgical approach. Psychological support can help patients cope with the emotional stress associated with the surgery. Post - operative pain management ensures that patients are comfortable during the recovery process, and rehabilitation services help patients regain function and strength in the chest area.

Comparing the Top Hospitals

Pre - operative Considerations for Adult Pectus Excavatum Surgery

Medical Evaluation

Before undergoing pectus excavatum surgery, patients need to undergo a complete medical evaluation. This includes 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 evaluate the chest anatomy. The surgeon will use this information to determine the most appropriate surgical approach and to identify any potential risks or complications.

Medication Management

Patients should inform their surgeon or nurse about all the medications they are taking, including prescription drugs, herbs, vitamins, and other supplements. Some medications, such as blood - thinning drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and warfarin, may need to be stopped about 7 days before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding during the procedure. The surgeon will provide specific instructions on which medications to stop and which ones to continue taking on the day of surgery.

Allergy Information

It is important for patients to tell their medical team about any allergies they may have to medicine, latex, tape, or skin cleanser. This information is crucial to avoid any allergic reactions during the surgery or in the post - operative period.

Pre - operative Fasting

On the day of surgery, patients are usually asked not to drink or eat anything after midnight the night before surgery. This is to prevent aspiration during anesthesia. However, patients should take any medications that the surgeon has instructed them to take with a small sip of water.

Post - operative Care and Recovery

Hospital Stay

After pectus excavatum surgery, it is common for patients to stay in the hospital for 3 to 7 days. The length of the hospital stay depends on how well the recovery is going. During this time, patients will receive pain management, which may include strong pain medicine in the vein (through an IV) or through a catheter placed in the spine (an epidural) for the first few days, followed by oral pain medications.

Respiratory Therapy

Patients will be encouraged to take deep breaths and perform respiratory exercises to prevent lung collapse and promote proper lung function. The day after surgery, patients will be helped to sit up, take deep breaths, and get out of bed and walk. These activities are important for preventing complications such as pneumonia and for promoting overall recovery.

Chest Tube Management

Patients may have tubes in the chest around the surgical cuts to drain extra fluid that collects from the procedure. These tubes will remain in place until they stop draining, usually after a few days. The medical team will closely monitor the tube output and ensure that the tubes are functioning properly.

Activity Restrictions

At first, patients will not be able to bend, twist, or roll from side to side. Activities will be slowly increased as the patient recovers. When the patient can walk without help, they are usually ready to go home. Before leaving the hospital, patients will receive a prescription for pain medicine and instructions on how to care for the surgical site at home.

Conclusion

In New York City, there are several excellent hospitals that offer high - quality adult pectus excavatum surgical repair. Hospitals like 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 stand out for their national rankings, specialty expertise, and comprehensive patient care. When choosing a hospital for this procedure, patients should consider factors such as national rankings, patient outcomes, the expertise of the surgical team, and the availability of comprehensive care services. Pre - operative preparation and post - operative care are also crucial for a successful surgical outcome. If you or someone you know is considering adult pectus excavatum surgical repair, take the time to research these top hospitals and consult with a medical professional to make an informed decision.

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