Why choose Hospital for Special Surgery for care? Read what patients are saying about us.
Kimberly Bennett, Nutley, NJ – finger tendon reconstruction surgery Following an injury to the knuckle on my finger, I was treated by several local specialists. After months of no improvement, I decided to go to HSS and consult with Dr. Edward Athanasian. He advised that I have surgery to repair the tendon.
Dr. Athanasian was caring, compassionate and always patient, answering all my questions (and boy did I have a lot). Both Dr. Athanasian and my HSS hand therapist, Emily A., who was also wonderful, helped me to achieve better-than-expected results. Everyone in Dr A.'s office and at HSS are awesome. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Dr. Athanasian to anyone who needs a hand specialist.
Christine Henderson Rose,Martinsville, NJ – spinal fusion surgery I came to know Dr. James Farmer and Dr. Christopher Lutz some five or six years ago when another staff member in my office had complicated spinal surgery done by Dr. Farmer and recommended him highly. Our initial contact with HSS was related to a failed spinal surgery that my daughter had at a local hospital. Little did I know that our focus would turn to me in these past two years. I developed significant pain in my right leg and my first stop was Dr. Lutz as we exhausted any and all non-invasive procedures. more
Christine Henderson Rose,Martinsville, NJ – spinal fusion surgery I came to know Dr. James Farmer and Dr. Christopher Lutz some five or six years ago when another staff member in my office had complicated spinal surgery done by Dr. Farmer and recommended him highly. Our initial contact with HSS was related to a failed spinal surgery that my daughter had at a local hospital. Little did I know that our focus would turn to me in these past two years. I developed significant pain in my right leg and my first stop was Dr. Lutz as we exhausted any and all non-invasive procedures. less
We reached a point where the only option was surgery and I met again with Dr. Farmer. There is no question that his approach to patient care put me at ease immediately and I truly felt like I was very much a "partner" in my care. He took the time to answer my many questions, continuing to assure me that everything would be fine, and he was absolutely correct. My fusion at L5/S1 and L4/L5 was successful and the leg pain is now gone. I am back to walking nearly two miles when, prior to the surgery, I could not walk from the car to the front door. Mall shopping is back on my agenda!
My experience at HSS was extraordinary, from the staff who welcomed me to the hospital to the nursing staff and other professionals. I have recommended Dr. Lutz and Dr. Farmer to several of my peers who suffer from back pain, and I know that I will always look at this experience as one of my better life decisions.
Alice Rosen, Centerport, New York – ankle surgery Although my surgery may be considered minor by some, neither did Dr. Elliott or the HSS staff treat me with any less care or attention. The pride which everyone takes is palpable. Dr. Elliott came to see me prior to surgery and after. He wanted to make sure that I was ok and well enough to return home. The nurses were attentive to my needs and cared about me unconditionally. The security guard who welcomed us into the hospital at 6am wished me luck and smiled as I left in the afternoon. Surgery is an event to be avoided at all costs, but when it's necessary, it's comforting to know that the hospital and doctor one chooses unconditionally cares about its patients.
Sue Goldberg,Cresskill, New Jersey – hip replacement surgery Before my hip replacement surgery with Dr. Gonzalez Della Valle, I was walking around tilted, with a pronounced limp - not something one should do when teaching nursery school! I got many concerned comments and was in deep pain. I knew it was time to correct the situation and live "normally" again. I had my surgery done right after my retirement and, I have to say, I am so happy with both! I now have pain-free flexibility and movement getting in and out of the car, playing with my granddaughter, sitting in a movie theater, and so on.
Post-surgery was not exactly a "breeze," but it was worth the work and effort to get back to walking upright and not having to sit down every few steps. I thank all involved at HSS for my new life!
Christopher Whippen, Vernon, CT – arthroscopy surgery Always an on and off runner, in November 2009 I ran my first half marathon, and my running career took off. I was doing races and logging miles month after month, all over the northeast; running had become something very special to me - and something that I was getting good at. But over time, I noticed a gradually increasing pain in the front of my hip.
For almost 2 years I sought various physical therapists, orthopedic specialists, cortisone shots, sports consultants, etc. I tried everything possible to figure it out. I was even told that I was just "getting old" by one doctor, which almost brought me to tears (I was only 28).
Christopher Whippen, Vernon, CT – arthroscopy surgery Always an on and off runner, in November 2009 I ran my first half marathon, and my running career took off. I was doing races and logging miles month after month, all over the northeast; running had become something very special to me - and something that I was getting good at. But over time, I noticed a gradually increasing pain in the front of my hip.
For almost 2 years I sought various physical therapists, orthopedic specialists, cortisone shots, sports consultants, etc. I tried everything possible to figure it out. I was even told that I was just "getting old" by one doctor, which almost brought me to tears (I was only 28).
By the summer of 2011, I could barely walk. This made me increasingly nervous considering my wife and I were expecting our first child, a girl, that September. I heard about Dr. Bryan Kelly at HSS through author/ironman Matt Long, a "running hero" of mine who I had met at the April 2011 Boston Marathon.
On my first visit to Dr. Kelly, he diagnosed me with a labral tear and scheduled my surgery. His office is a well-oiled machine - by far the best medical experience I have ever had. The surgery went smoothly, and Dr. Kelly’s office staff supported me through every step of the recovery process.
Now, 8 months later, I have returned to running and can't thank God enough for the people at HSS. It's still a recovery process that I handle on a daily basis, but I feel that I got the best medical treatment available and I couldn't be happier with the experience.
Mary Anne and Matthew Benedetto,Croton on Hudson, NY - leg surgery
From a very early age, with an impish grin and a twinkle in his eyes, my son, Matthew, would entertain all with his antics and ability to flip and fly through the air. As time went on, he used these skills in freestyle skiing with grace, determination, and quite a few spills. Never deterred, he picked himself up, carried on, and refined his skills. As an accomplished aerialist, he soared high combining many flips and twists. As his mother, I looked on with both pride and fear. I watched, guided, and chastised him when he went to far.
On a snowy day in March 2010 Matthew fell to earth. more
Mary Anne and Matthew Benedetto,Croton on Hudson, NY - leg surgery
From a very early age, with an impish grin and a twinkle in his eyes, my son, Matthew, would entertain all with his antics and ability to flip and fly through the air. As time went on, he used these skills in freestyle skiing with grace, determination, and quite a few spills. Never deterred, he picked himself up, carried on, and refined his skills. As an accomplished aerialist, he soared high combining many flips and twists. As his mother, I looked on with both pride and fear. I watched, guided, and chastised him when he went to far.
On a snowy day in March 2010 Matthew fell to earth. less
We got a call from him and in his very calm and collected voice he said, “Hi mom, I kinda broke my leg.” A conversation with the emergency personnel at the mountain revealed a much more serious situation; the local hospital was not equipped to deal with his injuries and the helicopter was on the way to take him to a trauma center.
He spent a few weeks at a local hospital and once he was stabilized, we transferred him to Hospital for Special Surgery - enter Dr. Helfet and his incredible team.
We are now going on almost two years under Dr. Helfet’s care and the results have been remarkable. What started as a fight to save his leg has evolved into a success story of a young man who has continued on with his college studies and just last month, returned to skiing. Matt’s medical records detail all the procedures and complications he faced along the way, but what they don’t tell is the skill, care, concern, and delightful bedside manner of Dr. Helfet. It is remarkable that Dr. Helfet was able to rebuild Matt’s leg to the degree that it is at now - almost full, pain-free function. With the exception of nerve damage that continues to improve, he has full use of his leg.
During the months that Matthew spent at HSS, I was amazed by all the unsolicited stories from patients attesting to Dr Helfet’s skill, and how lucky we are to have found him. We agree, very lucky indeed. I have told all my friends, I hope they never have occasion to require orthopedic trauma care, but if they do, I know who they should go see.
I would be remiss in not also acknowledging the rest of his team. Patricia, Allison and the many fellows who crossed paths with Matthew all provided the best and highest level of care. I also have to thank Dr. Helfet for putting up with Matt’s neurotic mother. But, as Dr. Helfet says, neurotic mothers are one of his specialties!
We have also crossed paths with many specialists during Matt’s stay at HSS. We often wonder if Dr. Wang ever went home, as he was ever present overseeing Matthew’s pain management. Our introduction to Dr. Miller was at first a bit dismaying, because it signaled yet another complication in Matthew’s recovery, however, he proved very adept in managing Matt's multiple infections. Dr. Miller also always took the time to answer my endless questions and explain all of his decisions.
And finally, the hospital’s unsung heroes, the nursing staff, deserve equal praise. They were ever present, competent, thorough, and caring. What more can we say, they made Matt’s stay as comfortable as possible and fulfilled all his requests. We are in their debt. Dr. Helfet likes to say Matthew is "the real deal," so is Dr. Helfet.
Leona Morton, Brooklyn, NY – knee replacement surgery My experience at the HSS was outstanding. I had a knee replacement 3 months ago. I am now walking with no assistance and am back to work. My message to those who are in need of surgery: Why settle for less when you can get the very, very best?
William Tucker, Alexandria, VA – hip replacement surgery Of all hospitals I have been treated in over the past 80 years, Hospital for Special Surgery was the very "best." The orientation for my hip replacement for all levels of the process removed all concerns and resulted in my positive attitude going into the operation. Knowing I was in the best hands with Dr. Chitanjan Ranawat, it could not have been more of a success. My doctor and his staff, as well as those that supported him during my operation and recovery, should be very proud of their success in hip replacements relieving the pain and restoring my quality of life. I have and will continue to recommend HSS to my friends that need special surgery. I could not have been in better hands.
Laura and Michael Scanlon, Long Valley, NJ – hip surgery My then 8-year-old son Michael suffered a dislocation of his left hip during a football scrimmage on August 17, 2011. He was admitted to a local hospital where his hip was reduced. He underwent surgery on August 18 to remove bone fragments and labrum lodged between the hip bone and socket. On August 30, he had a follow-up xray and the doctor told us that he wanted to send Michael back to the hospital to have dye injected into his hip as there was some concerning distancing in the hip joint. Our pediatrician recommended that we call Dr. Roger Widmann at HSS to get a second opinion. more
Laura and Michael Scanlon, Long Valley, NJ – hip surgery My then 8-year-old son Michael suffered a dislocation of his left hip during a football scrimmage on August 17, 2011. He was admitted to a local hospital where his hip was reduced. He underwent surgery on August 18 to remove bone fragments and labrum lodged between the hip bone and socket. On August 30, he had a follow-up xray and the doctor told us that he wanted to send Michael back to the hospital to have dye injected into his hip as there was some concerning distancing in the hip joint. Our pediatrician recommended that we call Dr. Roger Widmann at HSS to get a second opinion. less
Dr. Widmann graciously agreed to see us on the Friday morning of Labor Day weekend. His staff was amazingly exceptional. He reviewed Michael's charts and films and immediately sent Michael for an xray followed by an MRI. He advised us that there was a fracture of the acetabulum (which was not diagnosed at the other hospital) and he referred us to Dr. David Helfet. Dr. Helfet advised us that Michael needed immediate surgery to repair the fracture. Even though he was supposed to go on vacation, Dr. Helfet performed Michael's surgery that same night.
His staff was amazing, especially Marilyn, who found overnight accommodations for my husband and my two daughters. We thought we were coming to HSS for a second opinion but ended up having a second surgery that very night. Five months post-surgery, our son is back to being an active 9-year-old boy! We cannot thank Dr. Helfet and his amazing staff enough for taking great care of Michael. We have been so fortunate and blessed to have been referred to this amazing Hospital! Words cannot express our gratitude to HSS for our extremely positive experience! I would recommend this hospital to anyone in need of such experienced doctors!
Joanne Donoghue, Northport, NY – knee surgery, hip surgery I was 19 years old when I tore my right ACL as a college soccer player. It wasn't a very common injury at the time for female athletes, and I had one surgeon already mess up my first surgery. I was referred to Dr. David Altchek by a fellow player. He was doing an ACL repair arthroscopically, which was a very new surgery at the time. For 20 years I was able to play soccer, snowboard, bike, complete 4 marathons and become a competitive triathalete. I was born with hip dysplasia, and unfortunately after 20 years of wear and tear, I had major hip pain. Again I was referred to HSS for my hip. Who, at 36 years old, goes for a hip consult? Dr. Coleman knew my athletic history and did my arthroscopic hip surgery. We hoped it would allow me to avoid a hip replacement in my later years. I finished the Miami Marathon 8 months after that surgery. more
Joanne Donoghue, Northport, NY – knee surgery, hip surgery I was 19 years old when I tore my right ACL as a college soccer player. It wasn't a very common injury at the time for female athletes, and I had one surgeon already mess up my first surgery. I was referred to Dr. David Altchek by a fellow player. He was doing an ACL repair arthroscopically, which was a very new surgery at the time. For 20 years I was able to play soccer, snowboard, bike, complete 4 marathons and become a competitive triathalete. I was born with hip dysplasia, and unfortunately after 20 years of wear and tear, I had major hip pain. Again I was referred to HSS for my hip. Who, at 36 years old, goes for a hip consult? Dr. Coleman knew my athletic history and did my arthroscopic hip surgery. We hoped it would allow me to avoid a hip replacement in my later years. I finished the Miami Marathon 8 months after that surgery. less
In a freak accident I tore my right medial meniscus within the year. I went back to Dr. Altchek who had pretty much saved my athletic life 20 years earlier. He said it was a quick fix, "we go in and snip it." I said okay. I was training for an Ironman, the mecca of all Ironmans, and figured I would let him fix it and move on.
I came out of surgery with a full length leg brace and was told I couldn’t train for at least 4 months! I ended up having a complete medial meniscal repair. I had never heard of this, and I never knew it was even an option. I freaked out at first, but it was explained to me by Dr. Altchek's P.A. that any other surgeon would have removed my meniscus and left me with bone on bone, which would have instantly ended my running and triathlete career on the spot - a concept that scared me to death. Although I was upset, I was thankful that I could still do what I want. I am now 4 months out of that surgery and in full training for my Ironman. I owe this all to HSS and the doctors there. I know eventually I will be back, and they will have to put me back together again, but I would not trust anyone else and I could not be living out my dreams without them.
Rachel Becka, Virginia Beach, VA – hip surgery Thanks to Dr. Robert Buly, my theme this year is "I will because I can". I had my original hip replacement for my 40th birthday. I have RA which was activated when I gave a very difficult birth to my son. Because I was trying to get pregnant again, I was on prednizone for 3 years which caused damage to my hip. I had my first revision surgery in 2001 because of a defect in the plastic cup. I had another revision in September, 2008 which left me with nerve damage in my leg. It took 6 months of intensive physical therapy to get side-laying leg extension. more
Rachel Becka, Virginia Beach, VA – hip surgery Thanks to Dr. Robert Buly, my theme this year is "I will because I can". I had my original hip replacement for my 40th birthday. I have RA which was activated when I gave a very difficult birth to my son. Because I was trying to get pregnant again, I was on prednizone for 3 years which caused damage to my hip. I had my first revision surgery in 2001 because of a defect in the plastic cup. I had another revision in September, 2008 which left me with nerve damage in my leg. It took 6 months of intensive physical therapy to get side-laying leg extension. less
In June 2009, my hip dislocated 3 times in 8 days, not because of me exceeding 90 degrees, but because the ligaments never reattached. My doctor put in a locking hip in June 2009, at which time I apparently got an infection in the hip. The infection was not detected until July 30th, 2010 because of Enbrel. My doctor then operated and left a 15-inch open wound to the prosthetic because he felt the stem had been in my femur for so long he would have to break the femur to get it out and I would be in a wheelchair for the rest of my life. I lived with a woundvac "Fred" for 7 months and a pic line with IV antibotics. In December 2010, the infection was back at which time my doctor told me there was nothing more he could do for me.
I was having dinner with a friend who is a doctor when he suggested HSS. He made a phone call to another ortho doctor in the area and recommended Dr. Buly. Dr. Buly felt certain he could get the stem out and he did. He put in an antibiotic spacer on March 1st and went back in on May 17th for a full replacement. Everyone at HSS was wonderful and better than any hospital I have ever been in. Thanks to Dr. Buly I have begun tennis again, just got back from 11 days in the Bahamas and plan to visit Italy in June. Why? Because I can.
Martin Solomon, Hicksville, NY – knee replacement revision After having one of the best rated surgeons on Long Island perform my knee surgery, I went two years with further pain, especially while walking up and down stairs. After complaining to my surgeon for two years and him telling me that there was nothing more that he could do. He suggested I see another doctor for consult. I visited Dr. King who ordered special MRI exams and, in turn, referred me to Dr. Geoffrey Westrich who immediately diagnosed my problem. He set me up for revison surgery of my knee, due to the fact that the original surgery omitted the resurfacing of the patella. Today, I can walk up and down stairs, I have less pain each day, I can stand for several hours at a time and even do a light jog for exercise.
Maureen and Michael Benton, Southport, CT — thoracic spinal fusion surgery Our 12 year-old son, Michael, had a thoracic spinal fusion in August 2011 performed by Dr. Green. I am pleased to tell you that it was the best experience it could have been. HSS made this a positive experience for us. Dr. Green is a skilled surgeon and a kind person, the nursing staff was kind and attentive, and the ancillary staff was wonderful as well. Our room had a view of the East River which may sound silly but the water was such a healing entity for us. Staring out at the water while recovering was very helpful, and the kindness expressed to me as Mikey's parent-in-residence, well, I can't say enough. The kindness shown to us brings tears to my eyes. I especially liked the personal visits to Mikey from the nursing staff of the PACU when he was recovering in the regular surgical wing. I am recommending HSS to everyone with orthopedic needs. And FYI, Mikey was at the ballfield today swinging a bat with full rotation! We hope he will be back to being Jr. Babe Ruth soon!
Robert N. Angie,Manhasset, NY — elbow surgery, thumb surgery, wrist surgery, shoulder surgery, knee surgery I have been a patient at HSS since 1977 when I first saw Dr. Bernard Jacobs for my knee. He didn't want to operate at that time because he, along with other doctors, were working on a new procedure called, "arthroscopic surgery." He said my recovery would be much quicker once it was perfected. My first sugery was actually my right elbow in 1984 performed by Dr. Jacobs. Dr. Richard McCormick, Dr. Scott Wolfe, and Dr. Answorth Allen performed my other sugeries. For 35 years I have trusted HSS not only with my care, but for numerous people I have referred over the years. HSS is the only hospital I would ever consider for orthopedic care for surgery for myself, my family and those I do refer. I have always been extremely satisfied with every doctor I have visited, and in my case they have been numerous over the years. more
Robert N. Angie,Manhasset, NY — elbow surgery, thumb surgery, wrist surgery, shoulder surgery, knee surgery I have been a patient at HSS since 1977 when I first saw Dr. Bernard Jacobs for my knee. He didn't want to operate at that time because he, along with other doctors, were working on a new procedure called, "arthroscopic surgery." He said my recovery would be much quicker once it was perfected. My first sugery was actually my right elbow in 1984 performed by Dr. Jacobs. Dr. Richard McCormick, Dr. Scott Wolfe, and Dr. Answorth Allen performed my other sugeries. For 35 years I have trusted HSS not only with my care, but for numerous people I have referred over the years. HSS is the only hospital I would ever consider for orthopedic care for surgery for myself, my family and those I do refer. I have always been extremely satisfied with every doctor I have visited, and in my case they have been numerous over the years. less
I do have a very special thank you for Dr. Answorth Allen who is a shoulder, elbow and knee specialist who many years ago committed to be my "quarterback" regarding my care. He is the first doctor I see regardless of the joint I have a problem with and he then guides me to the doctor specializing in the area of expertise that I need. I love all the doctors at HSS, but Dr. Allen is tops on my list and I consider him a friend. I honestly believe that without the professionals at HSS I would not be functioning as well as I am at age 58 and that is why I have told countless people over the years to never have any type of orthopedic procedure done until they have gone to HSS. I know there are future procedures I will need down the road, but I feel very comfortable knowing they will be done at HSS.
Brian Cantin, Rego Park, NY — ankle surgery The original problem I had with my ankle happened about four years ago when I injured it. I was told that I have tendonitis in the ankle and required physical therapy. After success, I was back on my way until one night while I was sleeping, my ankle woke me up with unbelievable pain. Having no idea why the pain started, I went back to my original foot doctor and he had no answer after a new MRI was done. Frustrated with this roadblock, I went to three other specialists in the foot and ankle field. None had a clear-cut answer, even after looking at my MRI and knowing my history. All that they could do was suggest aspirin, heat or ice, and that was it. One doctor even suggested I see a pain specialist. Finally, my regular doctor suggested I see Dr. Mark Drakos. I had nothing to lose so I made the appointment. more
Brian Cantin, Rego Park, NY — ankle surgery The original problem I had with my ankle happened about four years ago when I injured it. I was told that I have tendonitis in the ankle and required physical therapy. After success, I was back on my way until one night while I was sleeping, my ankle woke me up with unbelievable pain. Having no idea why the pain started, I went back to my original foot doctor and he had no answer after a new MRI was done. Frustrated with this roadblock, I went to three other specialists in the foot and ankle field. None had a clear-cut answer, even after looking at my MRI and knowing my history. All that they could do was suggest aspirin, heat or ice, and that was it. One doctor even suggested I see a pain specialist. Finally, my regular doctor suggested I see Dr. Mark Drakos. I had nothing to lose so I made the appointment. less
I was thrilled to hear that Dr. Drakos was affiliated with Hospital for Special Surgery as this was the hospital I wanted to go to but could not get an appointment with any other doctor for at least 6 months. Dr. Drakos took one look at my swollen foot, saw my MRI, and immediately suggested we drain the fluid he saw. I was excited to hear some progress about to be made (although I was not excited for the draining procedure). As soon as he got the fluid out, he knew something wasn't right. Four days later, he informed me that I had an infection and needed surgery right away to take care of the problem. I had the surgery at HSS (this was my first surgery of any kind in my life) and four days after, I was home.
I really enjoyed my stay at the hospital. Everyone has stories about hospitals and how it can be boring or bad, but I did not have a bad experience whatsoever during my stay. Now I am on the road to recovery and hope by the summertime, I can get back to doing the things I loved to do - bike rides, handball, football, anything to tell you the truth. Since my surgery, I've been telling all my friends and co-workers that if they ever need anything done or checked out, to first check out the doctors at this Hospital. If there comes a time when I do need surgery again, the first place I will check out is Hospital for Special Surgery.
Nancy Mahoney, Fishkill, NY — knee replacement I had fallen four years ago and complained of shooting pains down the calf of my leg. I went to four different ortho specialists over the next three years with all different outcomes. Finally, I could not stand the pain and low quality of life anymore (I teach Kindergarten), so I researched HSS and found Dr. Mayman. I had my right knee replaced in June of 2011, and my left knee replaced in January of 2012. I am now on my way to a full recovery and look forward to running around after my kids. I was treated as a queen for each surgery, with care and compassion from everyone on the staff. I am a very nervous person generally and almost backed out the day of my second surgery. But with care and kindness, I was able to complete the procedure. I tell all I meet about HSS, the doctors, the staff, and the care. It is the best hospital I have ever been in for surgery. Thank You!
Sherwin Slater, Monroe Township, NJ — shoulder replacement I had fallen in my bedroom causing a massive tear in my left rotator cuff. It was so severe that it couldn't be repaired, necessitating a complete shoulder replacement masterfully done by Dr. Warren. Initally, I had little pain, but that changed after the anesthetic wore off, and I had some pain medication at home. Dr. Warren had me begin a six week course of outside physical therapy. On the days I did not have PT, I did similar exercises at home and gradually, the pain wore off. I now have about 80 percent function of my right shoulder.
Robert S. Kramer, Staten Island, NY — rotator cuff surgery I was exercising in accordance to my department's policy and while preforming a bench press I heard a popping noise in my left shoulder followed by immense pain and swelling. I knew that something wasn't right. I went to see Dr. Answorth Allen, a specialist in shoulder repair who diagnosed my shoulder with a torn rotator cuff that required surgery.
I want to express how professional, courteous, and helpful his office staff was. Never in my past have I ever had the pleasure of feeling so comfortable with a staff like this. When I arrived for surgery, I was greeted by the administrative staff who checked me in. This was a flawless and smooth process. From the desk reception to the assisting nurse, I felt so welcome that my surgery almost slipped my mind. I was a little apprehensive and the staff recognized this. Needless to say, I am not one that likes to get an IV. But the staff had gathered around and put my mind at ease while doing so. more
Robert S. Kramer, Staten Island, NY — rotator cuff surgery I was exercising in accordance to my department's policy and while preforming a bench press I heard a popping noise in my left shoulder followed by immense pain and swelling. I knew that something wasn't right. I went to see Dr. Answorth Allen, a specialist in shoulder repair who diagnosed my shoulder with a torn rotator cuff that required surgery.
I want to express how professional, courteous, and helpful his office staff was. Never in my past have I ever had the pleasure of feeling so comfortable with a staff like this. When I arrived for surgery, I was greeted by the administrative staff who checked me in. This was a flawless and smooth process. From the desk reception to the assisting nurse, I felt so welcome that my surgery almost slipped my mind. I was a little apprehensive and the staff recognized this. Needless to say, I am not one that likes to get an IV. But the staff had gathered around and put my mind at ease while doing so. less
Dr. Allen is the best surgeon that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. His demeanor is outstanding and his ability to express what he was going to do was done with detailed explanation. Granted, I proved to have a more difficult injury then originally diagnosed, but Dr. Allen, being the professional that he is, completed my rotator cuff repair. It has now been 5 months from my surgical date and I am back in the gym. My shoulder feels great, other then the expected issues that were clearly expressed to me by Dr. Allen. I have now recommended Dr. Allen to several other friends and family members who have gone to see him. They expressed to me that he and his staff are great. If there was ever an award for outstanding patient care it should go to Dr. Allen, his staff, and to HSS.
Nancy Deutsch, Massapequa Park, NY — hip revision surgery After having had a right hip replacement go awry from a Long Island Hospital, and after having been on Oxycodin for 14 months with no help from my surgeon, I finally went to see Dr. Della Valle at HSS. He diagnosed my condition in about 2 minutes and I had the surgery August 31, 2011. He changed my life, and when I do the left hip, which will be this year, I will go directly to him and to HSS, which is clearly the greatest hospital I was ever in. Please note that I've had at least 15 major surgeries during my life so far! I'm hoping the left hip will be my last and I wouldn't go anywhere but HSS.
Charles Kaplanek, Huntington, NY — total hip replacement I suffer from osteoarthritis which ran deeply in my family. I was diagnosed with degenerative osteoarthritis of my left hip over two years ago. I wanted to delay my surgery as long as possible, but it came to a point that I could not walk to the car. So I decided it was time for surgery. My wife, a pilates instructor and author, publishing and specializing in Hip and Knee rehabilitation, helped me begin a 6-week "pre-habilitation" program in preparation for my surgery. I chose HSS and Dr. Paul Pellicci because it just does not come any better. So, with HSS, Paul Pellicci, and my "preop, prehabilitation," I walked the day of my surgery. I got my staples removed and was discharged in less than 48 hours! I continued with the specified "pilates" rehab from my wife's book for the next 12 weeks and I sailed through the healing time period with great speed and ease. I recommend this type of program for everyone.
Bernard Leventhal, Wappingers Falls, NY — left and right hip replacement The information and classes before the surgery, the care, and the help you receive after surgery, are what make HSS so special. I know that it sped up my recovery. It enabled me to return to playing tennis and hiking - the two things I like best. If you want to maintain your quality of life, there is only one choice for hip replacement - HSS. I truly believe this.
Michael Nixon, Greenwich, CT — hip replacement I admire all of HSS. I could say many things others already have said, but I want to talk about me. I could say those at HSS are "professional, sanitary, careful, responsive, graceful, esprit de corp, smiling," but here is the important thing - my thirteen-minute mile. I will be back at HSS. We are partners in my happy next twenty years. I can still climb three stories, two stairs at a time. Thank you, Dr. Cornell!
Davis Roya, Neponsit, NY — hip resurfacing I am a 69 year-old fitness and health food fanatic, as well as an instructor of Taekwondo and yoga. I am also nature hiker and cross-country skier. Although remaining at peak fitness, my right hip was so bad, I couldn't make it around the block. I have always been against all medication and doctors in general, but I was not ready to be put out to pasture. I searched for the best hospital and the best surgeon, and I got both in Dr. Su and HSS. Five weeks ago I got a right hip resurfacing procedure done and I now feel blessed. I have my life back. I have zero pain, my strength and flexibility are back, and every day I feel better. I feel fantastic. I had no problems from the operation at all. The incision was painful and the medication made me sick, but I was off the pain medication in 2 days. However, even the aspirin made me sick (it never had before). My advice to anyone getting hip surgery is to get in peak condition before the operation and start rehab immediately after surgery. Choose HSS to get the best. Thank you, Dr. Su, for giving me my life back. I feel no different than I did in my 30's.
Allison Cooper, Shelton, CT — open knee surgery, posterior capsular release, taylor spatial frame At the age of 29, I had a simple arthroscopic knee surgery in 2007, for a running injury, that left me with a left knee contracture. After multiple surgeries, open knee and additional arthroscopy, my knee was left severely damaged, with massive scar and a 25 degree contracture. I was walking on the ball of my foot as that was all that could reach the ground. After 2 years and over a dozen surgeries, I came to HSS. It was recommended I see Dr. Rozbruch. After looking at my X-rays and my knee, he said "I can help you." After so many doctors, he was the only one who was confident he could restore my knee.
In March, 2010, I underwent an open knee and posterior capsular release with application of a Taylor Spatial Frame. I had the frame for 6 months. After which, I had a straight leg! I now had to work on movement and flexion, the next hurdle. Because my body produces such severe scars, I had additional surgeries to help regain movement. Dr. Rozbruch has been so supportive, trusting, and patient. He has always spent time encouraging and working with me so that I can gain the greatest outcome possible. With his support and dedication, I know he will get me to walk again.
Please consider becoming an ambassador for the Hospital by sharing your experience with those around you. Your words of encouragement give reassurance to others considering HSS for their care.
