Introduction
Pectus excavatum is an abnormal inward curve of the breastbone, which can range from mild to severe. In mild - moderate cases, surgical intervention can often lead to improved respiratory function and a better cosmetic appearance. Albany has several hospitals that are well - equipped to handle pectus excavatum surgeries. In this article, we will explore the top three hospitals for mild - moderate pectus excavatum surgery in Albany, along with an in - depth understanding of pectus excavatum itself.
Understanding Pectus Excavatum
Definition and Causes
Pectus excavatum is a condition where the front of the chest, including the ribs and breastbone (sternum), sinks inward, creating a sunken appearance. According to SUNY Upstate, it may be visible at birth, and severe forms can put pressure on the heart and lungs. The exact cause is unknown, but it may be due to pulling on the breastbone and rib cage from shortened diaphragm muscle tendons or problems with the cartilage of the rib cage.
Risk Factors
- Gender and Race: Pectus excavatum is more common in men and white people.
- Family History: Having other family members with similar problems increases the risk.
- Associated Syndromes: Conditions such as scoliosis, Marfan syndrome, Ehlers - Danlos syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, and Turner syndrome can also raise the risk.
Symptoms
The main symptom is an inward curve of the front of the chest wall, which can be mild or deep enough to form a bowl shape. A child may not have symptoms until growth begins during the teenage years. Severe curves may cause difficulty exercising, shortness of breath with activity, rapid heartbeat, and chest pain.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is often made in the first year of life. The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health and conduct a physical exam focused on the chest. More tests, such as pulmonary function tests and echocardiograms, may be done to find out if the heart and lungs are affected.
Treatment Options
People who do not have symptoms may not need treatment. Breathing exercises and aerobic activity may be advised. For those who require treatment, the two main surgical options are the Nuss procedure and the Ravitch procedure. The Nuss procedure secures a metal bar to the breastbone to push it into a better position for two to three years, while the Ravitch procedure removes cartilage from the breastbone and ribs, places the breastbone in its proper position, and uses a metal strut and mesh to hold it in place for 6 to 12 months.
Top Three Hospitals for Mild - Moderate Pectus Excavatum Surgery in Albany
1. St. Peter's Hospital - Albany
Overview
St. Peter's Hospital in Albany is ranked #1 in Albany, NY, according to US News Best Hospitals. It is high - performing in 2 specialties and 15 procedures/conditions. The hospital is well - known for providing comprehensive and compassionate surgical care to patients with chest - related diseases.
Albany Thoracic & Esophageal Surgery at St. Peter's
Located in the professional medical office building adjacent to St. Peter’s hospital, Albany Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery offers specialized care for pectus excavatum. Their highly trained and skilled surgeons care for patients with a variety of chest - related conditions, including pectus excavatum. They possess the diagnostic tools required for work - up, the surgical skill to perform the operation, and the knowledge to guide post - operative care and long - term follow - up.
Services and Facilities
- Diagnostic Services: They offer a full spectrum of endoscopy procedures of the lungs and esophagus, as well as dilation, stenting, and laser procedures. These diagnostic tools are crucial for accurately assessing the severity of pectus excavatum.
- Surgical Expertise: The surgeons at Albany Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery are experienced in performing both the Nuss and Ravitch procedures for pectus excavatum. They use minimally invasive surgical approaches whenever indicated, which can lead to reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times for patients.
- Multidisciplinary Team: The hospital's physicians serve as team leaders, coordinating care with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other members of the multidisciplinary team. This ensures that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs.
Contact Information
Address: 319 S Manning Blvd, Ste 206, Albany, NY 12208
Phone: 5185258501, (518) 525 - 8503
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
2. Albany Medical Center
Overview
Albany Medical Center is ranked #2 in Albany, NY, and is high - performing in 13 procedures/conditions, as reported by US News Best Hospitals. It is a general medical and surgical facility and a teaching hospital. The evaluation of Albany Medical Center also includes data from Albany Medical Center South - Clinical Campus.
Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine Services
The Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine department at Albany Medical Center treats a wide range of chest - related conditions, including pectus excavatum. They offer various treatments and services such as ion robotic - assisted bronchoscopy for earlier detection and treatment of lung cancer, 64 - slice CT scans, bronchoscopy, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. These advanced diagnostic and treatment options can be beneficial for patients with pectus excavatum, especially in cases where the condition may be affecting the lungs.
Surgical Capabilities
The hospital has a team of skilled thoracic surgeons who are experienced in performing pectus excavatum surgeries. They are familiar with both the traditional and minimally invasive surgical techniques and can choose the most appropriate approach based on the patient's condition. The surgical intensive care unit (SICU) at Albany Medical Center provides high - level care for patients after surgery, ensuring a safe and smooth recovery process.
Patient Experience
Although the patient experience rating is 2 out of 5, Albany Medical Center has medical surgical and cardiac ICUs, bariatric/weight control services, and an onsite emergency department. This indicates that the hospital has the necessary infrastructure and resources to provide comprehensive care to patients undergoing pectus excavatum surgery.
Contact Information
Address: 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY 12208 - 3478
Phone: (518) 262 - 3125
3. Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Overview
The Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center is an important healthcare provider in the Albany area, especially for veterans. While specific rankings for pectus excavatum surgery may not be as publicly available as the other two hospitals, it has a reputation for providing high - quality medical and surgical care.
Services for Pectus Excavatum
The hospital likely has a team of experienced surgeons and medical staff who can diagnose and treat pectus excavatum. They are committed to providing care that is tailored to the needs of veterans, which may include specialized post - operative rehabilitation and support services.
Benefits for Veterans
Veterans who choose to have pectus excavatum surgery at the Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center may be eligible for certain benefits and services, such as VA - covered healthcare costs, access to VA - specific support programs, and a network of healthcare providers who are familiar with the unique needs of veterans.
Comparing the Three Hospitals
| Hospital | Rankings | Specialized Services | Patient Experience | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Peter's Hospital - Albany | #1 in Albany, NY, high - performing in 2 specialties and 15 procedures/conditions | Albany Thoracic & Esophageal Surgery with comprehensive diagnostic and surgical services for chest - related diseases | Not specifically mentioned, but known for compassionate care | 319 S Manning Blvd, Ste 206, Albany, NY 12208; 5185258501, (518) 525 - 8503; Mon - Fri, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm |
| Albany Medical Center | #2 in Albany, NY, high - performing in 13 procedures/conditions | Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine services, advanced diagnostic and treatment options | Patient experience rating of 2 out of 5, but has necessary medical infrastructure | 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY 12208 - 3478; (518) 262 - 3125 |
| Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center | Rankings not as publicly available | Medical and surgical care for pectus excavatum, with potential focus on veteran - specific needs | Not specifically mentioned, but committed to veteran care | Not detailed in provided sources, but patients can check the official VA website |
Conclusion
In conclusion, St. Peter's Hospital - Albany, Albany Medical Center, and Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center are three top - notch hospitals in Albany for mild - moderate pectus excavatum surgery. Each hospital has its own unique strengths, whether it's the specialized thoracic surgery services at St. Peter's, the advanced diagnostic and treatment options at Albany Medical Center, or the focus on veteran - specific care at the Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
If you or a loved one is considering pectus excavatum surgery, we encourage you to do further research, consult with the hospitals directly, and speak to patients who have had similar surgeries. This will help you make an informed decision about which hospital is the best fit for your needs. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning about pectus excavatum surgery in Albany, and explore related topics to expand your knowledge on chest - related conditions and surgical treatments.
