Why choose Hospital for Special Surgery for care? Read what patients are saying about us.
Sally Anderson,Jacksonville, FL – tibial revision of total knee replacement When I was 34, I had my first total knee replacement due to traumatic arthritis from a sports injury. As the saying goes, “once an athlete, always an athlete.” Six months following this replacement, I was back on the sand playing the best volleyball of my life. You can imagine my distress and confusion when, a year later, I was nearly crippled with pain and disability worse than pre-op.
Sally Anderson,Jacksonville, FL – tibial revision of total knee replacement When I was 34, I had my first total knee replacement due to traumatic arthritis from a sports injury. As the saying goes, “once an athlete, always an athlete.” Six months following this replacement, I was back on the sand playing the best volleyball of my life. You can imagine my distress and confusion when, a year later, I was nearly crippled with pain and disability worse than pre-op.
Despite the original surgeon acknowledging that my tibial prosthesis was hanging over the bone, he told me just to accept the pain and disability as part of a total knee replacement. This had been my ninth knee surgery, on top of the 20 other surgeries I underwent to control a chronic pain condition that had been triggered by the original injury.
After fighting so hard to control my pain and have a normal activity level, I was not willing to accept a lifetime of crippling pain and inactivity. While an esteemed surgeon at another hospital was able to clearly diagnose the tibial implant in my leg as being both too large and in the wrong position, they were not supportive of my desire to return to semi-competitive beach volleyball. I was told to stop playing in order for them to operate.
A colleague of mine then recommended Hospital for Special Surgery. Following a search of the HSS physician profiles for a surgeon I thought might be a good fit, I selected Dr. David Mayman in hopes he would be willing to consider my goals and offer me alternatives more consistent with my lifestyle. While I was certainly impressed with his compassion, intelligence, and determination after just the initial consult, it was his personal efforts to collaborate my care with local providers, his patient and personal responses to all my questions, and his consideration of my pain management needs that won my lifetime loyalty and respect.
Dr. Mayman is one of those rare physicians who practice their craft as a calling rather than a job. He is a true healer. What is even more stunning, is that this professionalism and passion for treating the whole person is evident throughout the entire HSS spectrum of care. I was especially touched by the exhaustive efforts of Heather W. and Kathleen H. in Dr. Mayman's office to help me plan my trip and coordinate my care as I traveled from FL to NY over the Christmas holiday to have surgery. They never failed to cheerfully and efficiently respond to me. Not only was my tibia revised (the original part was removed and replaced with the proper prosthetic), but my pain condition was so well managed, it never reared its head and remains in remission.
Three years later, at 39, I have won two beach volleyball championships, am kickboxing with a world-ranked trainer. I have had neither pain nor any limitations. I'd say I choose well! “Thank you” will never be sufficient to describe the gratitude I feel to Dr. Mayman and the entire HSS family.
Holly Decaro,Weston, CT – spine surgery It is rare to find a specialist that is not only knowledgeable and professional, but compassionate as well. I had scoliosis surgery in April and Dr. Cunningham and his assistant, Tina, were the best I have ever met. They turned a traumatic experience into something positive.
I have worked with doctors for 8 years and Dr. Cunningham was so patient and kind. My choice of physicians to do this surgery was well researched, but you can't do a search on bedside manner. He was fantastic and I just can't say enough about how pleased I am with the surgery. It has been 6 months and I am still healing, but I am confident that I will fully recover.
I would recommend that anyone considering spinal surgery turn to the expert staff at HSS.
Richard Reichle, Marlton, NJ – spinal fusion surgery After my first back surgery in Sept 2011, which was done elsewhere, I didn't improve and it was a bad experience overall. So with my wife's help, we started looking for a second opinion. After hearing what Dr. Cunningham and his team did for a co-worker of mine, I called for a consult and was able to get in to see him very quickly which was a pleasant surprise. more
Richard Reichle, Marlton, NJ – spinal fusion surgery After my first back surgery in Sept 2011, which was done elsewhere, I didn't improve and it was a bad experience overall. So with my wife's help, we started looking for a second opinion. After hearing what Dr. Cunningham and his team did for a co-worker of mine, I called for a consult and was able to get in to see him very quickly which was a pleasant surprise. less
Never before did I have a doctor spend so much time with my wife and me, explaining exactly what he saw and what he thought he could do for me. Dr. Cunningham is tremendous and his team is the epitome of efficient! His office manager, Tina, before I was ever seen, had set aside two surgery dates for me so if surgery was the answer, I wouldn't have to wait months for it. That meant a great deal to me because I was in considerable pain and they really were concerned and wanted to help me.
Surgery was the last thing I expected, but considering that I had two epidurals with months of therapy after my first surgery, Dr. Cunningham was certain that fusion surgery was my best option for relief. Within a month of my first visit, I had all of my pre-op tests done and even took a class on what to expect before and after surgery.
Dr. Cunningham did the fusion and four days later I was home! Now, I am recovering slowly but surely and it is so comforting to know that if I have a question or concern, help is just an email or phone call away.
It is worth the 200 mile round-trip we undertake every time I have an appointment, and I feel very fortunate to have been pointed in Dr. Cunningham's direction.
They make you feel as if you are their only patient - which is very rare these days. I hope I never need their services again, but I would not consider ever going anywhere else!
Robert Kelly,Wayne, NJ – bilateral hip resurfacing Unfortunately I don't have any action photos to share about how I'm able to go back to mountain climbing or downhill ski racing. I'm just an "average Joe" who had a relatively active lifestyle until osteoarthritis got the best of my hips. It took a lot of convincing before I was ready to accept that I needed surgical intervention to alleviate my worsening hip pain. When I met with Dr. Mayman about my options, he gave me the reassurance that I was looking for, that I could return to the active lifestyle I once knew.
After my first hip resurfacing procedure I was amazed at how fast I was able to regain the movement and range of motion with my affected hip. Within 8 months, I was back at HSS for the other side and that outcome surpassed my already high expectations with HSS and Dr. Mayman. Now at eight weeks post-surgery, I sometimes have to remind myself that I have had bilateral hip resurfacing done. The pain is long gone, and in my personal case, I'm quickly getting back to doing things I thought I couldn't do anymore. Hats off to Dr. Mayman and the staff at HSS!
Jeffrey Pullen,Burtonsville, MD – double hip replacement I have been battling arthritis in both hips for many years. This has limited my mobility and in some cases, I had to use a cane to walk. During this time, I saw many different doctors who gave me differing opinions on what to do, from losing weight to taking medication. Some doctors even stated that I was too young (in my 40s) for such a procedure. One Sunday morning, I was watching a segment on joint replacements on CBS Sunday Morning where HSS was mentioned. After the show, I investigated the information and found out that the facility was one of the top-ranked orthopedic hospitals in the US. After validating that my insurance would cover a visit, I set up an appointment, and was referred to Dr. Nestor. more
Jeffrey Pullen,Burtonsville, MD – double hip replacement I have been battling arthritis in both hips for many years. This has limited my mobility and in some cases, I had to use a cane to walk. During this time, I saw many different doctors who gave me differing opinions on what to do, from losing weight to taking medication. Some doctors even stated that I was too young (in my 40s) for such a procedure. One Sunday morning, I was watching a segment on joint replacements on CBS Sunday Morning where HSS was mentioned. After the show, I investigated the information and found out that the facility was one of the top-ranked orthopedic hospitals in the US. After validating that my insurance would cover a visit, I set up an appointment, and was referred to Dr. Nestor. less
During my 30 minute visit with him, I learned more about hip replacements than I had from my previous doctors. I even consulted one of my former doctors about having the procedure done at HSS and he was very glowing about HSS. He referred to HSS as the “NBA all-stars” of joint replacement surgery. So, in 2006, I decided to have both hips done, one at a time. The first one was done 2 weeks before Christmas, not a great time for surgery, but it was necessary. I stayed at HSS for 5 days and was able to come home 5 days before Christmas. My recovery was great, so great that I wanted to schedule my second replacement, but I was concerned it would interfere with my upcoming wedding plans. Dr. Nestor adjusted his surgical schedule so I could have my second surgery in early March so that I could be fully recovered for my May wedding.
The funny story to the second surgery is that Dr. Nestor recommended additional physical therapy in the weeks before the wedding, but it was not needed. So, on May 5, 2007, I was able to walk down to aisle for my wedding with no limping or joint pain. Many of my friends were shocked to see this as well as to hear that it was roughly 60 days ago that I had the second of two hip replacements. It has been five years since my surgery and my hips are 100% OK. I have no pain, I am not limping, and I can walk distances without stopping or pain. All of this has been possible because of the care and treatment by Dr. Nestor, his assistants (Denise and Geri), and the fine professionals at HSS.
Cathy Rochford,Long Beach, NY – spine surgery On March 14, 2012, at the age of 52, I had spinal fusion surgery of T3 - L4 by the brilliant Dr. Oheneba Boachie-Adjei. My experience was great starting with Dr. Boachie and his wonderful office staff (Lindy, Tom, Theresa and Cynthia). They were always helpful with any of my questions or concerns and would always calm my fears.
The wonderful care continued at HSS. My pre-op testing was a long day and I was treated by the most professional, courteous and understanding staff that put me at ease. The day of surgery, that care continued. I was treated so well I couldn't believe how calm I was. My anesthesiologist, Dr. Michael Urban was wonderful and checked on me days after to monitor my pain. Most importantly, my family was treated very well and was kept well informed during my 7-hour surgery. During my 10-day stay at HSS, the treatment I received by doctors, nurses, aides, PT, even housekeeping, was extraordinary! It has been 3 months and I can't believe how great I am doing. HSS is the best hospital and Dr. Boachie is amazing! Thank you to all.
Rick Tully,Merrick, NY – hip resurfacing and hip replacement Being an ice hockey goalie for over 40 years had wreaked havoc on both of my hips, but I still wanted to continue to play. In January of 2009, I had hip resurfacing done by Dr. Geoffrey Westrich at HSS. Obviously, I was concerned that this type of operation would be the end of my playing days but Dr. Westrich assured me that it would not. He was right. By June of 2009, I was back skating on the ice, though not yet playing goal.
In September, I resumed playing goal and have been doing so ever since. People were amazed that I could still perform after having the surgery. Fast forward to April of 2012, the week after my hockey season ended, I had a full hip replacement on my other hip. Once again I have been assured by Dr. Westrich that I will be able to resume playing hockey by the fall.
Dr. Westrich and the entire staff at HSS are amazing people. Since 2009, I have referred two other people to the doctor for hip replacement, and both are doing great. One of them is a teammate of mine who had double hip surgery! If you are considering hip replacement, look no further than HSS.
Tara Bulzacchelli, Pleasant Valley, NY – left knee reconstruction surgery We have been blessed with five HSS doctors. Two years ago, our son had a devastating knee injury that carried a high rate of disability. In addition, he developed compartment syndrome, which carries a high rate of amputation. Our home-town surgeon had only seen three such injuries in his entire career. He told us our son would be disabled and faced developing early arthritis. more
Tara Bulzacchelli, Pleasant Valley, NY – left knee reconstruction surgery We have been blessed with five HSS doctors. Two years ago, our son had a devastating knee injury that carried a high rate of disability. In addition, he developed compartment syndrome, which carries a high rate of amputation. Our home-town surgeon had only seen three such injuries in his entire career. He told us our son would be disabled and faced developing early arthritis. less
As our son remained in ICU, we were warned of his poor prognosis. Then, a miracle happened - Dr. Widmann from HSS returned my call at 11:30 at night and arranged our son’s transfer to New York. By morning, top surgeons from Hospital for Special Surgery were reconstructing his knee. Dr. Anil Ranawat repaired the multi-ligament injuries he sustained and Dr. Lorich repaired his tibial plateau fracture. Both Dr. Lorich and Dr. Ranawat were wonderful. Dr. Ranawat had the most involvement with our son because he had to reconstruct the ligaments in stages. He and his PA, Priya, were always available. Dr. Lorich assured us our son would walk again and gave us hope.
After reconstruction, which took about a year, our son was able to walk again, up to a few miles a day. As expected, although he is only a teenager, he developed early osteoarthritis of the knee – a common outcome following a dislocated knee with a tibial plateau fracture. This is where Dr. Wickiewicz came in. He’s a wonderful orthopedic surgeon from HSS who specializes in osteoarthritis of the knee. Luckily, we didn’t have to look far to find him. He had already performed one surgery on our son’s knee which greatly improved his ability to walk further and with less pain.
In addition to these wonderful surgeons, Dr. Ngeow from HSS Pain Management, also cared for our son. Dr. Ngeow has been compassionate and knowledgeable in finding solutions to arthritis and nerve pain. He too is always available and takes time to listen. My son would not be walking had he not received the care of these four dedicated doctors. Although his injury will impact the rest of life, it is reassuring to know he will receive the best care and have the best outcome for someone with this type of injury. Thank you Dr. Widmann, Dr. Ranawat, Dr. Lorich. Dr. Wickiewicz, and Dr. Ngeow.
Joe Salem,Oxford, CT – hip resurface surgery Dr. Su performed hip resurface surface to my right hip on 4/20/12. I could not be happier with the outcome thus far. The professionalism of the whole HSS staff is apparent from the gentleman who greats you at the entrance at 6 am to the top surgeon. The nursing staff is top notch! It was truly a gift to find HSS and to have my surgery performed by Dr. Su and his assistant Victoria. I would highly recommend HSS in any of their specialties. Thank you for giving me my active life back!
Stephanie Grey, Hamden, CT – Total Knee Revision About a year and a half ago I was having trouble with my left knee. It had been replaced when I was in my late forties and had served me well for about 14 years. Unfortunately, I aggravated the knee and, after having fluid removed and tested, it was determined to be very inflamed and possibly infected. I was an avid exerciser and this news meant only one thing - I wouldn’t be able to race walk or continue to teach aerobics! more
Stephanie Grey, Hamden, CT – Total Knee Revision About a year and a half ago I was having trouble with my left knee. It had been replaced when I was in my late forties and had served me well for about 14 years. Unfortunately, I aggravated the knee and, after having fluid removed and tested, it was determined to be very inflamed and possibly infected. I was an avid exerciser and this news meant only one thing - I wouldn’t be able to race walk or continue to teach aerobics! less
After seeing my original surgeon and several highly recommended orthopedists, I became discouraged with one singular conclusion - I needed my prosthesis replaced as soon as possible. Even with debilitating pain I was not ready to be out of commission. I had eight previous surgeries on the same knee and was not ready for another operation! Feeling very frustrated, I decided to turn to the internet. I looked up “top orthopedic doctors” and found Hospital for Special Surgery and Dr. David Mayman. After reviewing my case, Dr. Mayman agreed to see me. He listened to my concerns with understanding and empathy and posed several options, one of which being a “redo” of my knee. Although I did have a total revision of my knee, Dr. Mayman was unbiased in his recommendations and in no way suggested what decision I should make.
I lived three hours away and didn’t know how all the particulars of going there for surgery and returning home for aftercare would work out. I never stopped to think that people from all over the world go there for care. However, I wanted the best possible outcome. My choice to go with Dr. Mayman at HSS was carefully debated and also proved to be an effortless one. From the moment I decided to have surgery, the hospital literally took care of my every need. All arrangements were made from my pre-op visit to my physical therapy back home. I only had to think about resting up for surgery. With the advanced technology and care that HSS provides and the expertise of Dr. Mayman, I have had a remarkable recovery.
I was moving, extending and flexing my knee the first day after surgery. I returned to work five weeks afterward and, although I am getting a little slower, I am back to walking three to five miles almost every day. I recently tore the meniscus in my right knee and prevailed on Dr. Mayman a second time with great results. While I don’t anticipate any surgical needs in the near future, I know just where to go!
Celine Read,Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic - tibia and ankle In the middle of a long weekend, living on an island, it is not rare to find almost everyone at the beach. That’s were it all happened. On January 29, 2012, I was with a friend riding in a beach car. Being in the passenger seat wasn’t much of an advantage, because minutes later the little car that seemed harmless was over my right leg. I remember how I didn't even feel the tears running down my face. It was a sudden shock. When the car was lifted up, I felt like somebody had ripped off my right leg from the knee down. I couldn't even breathe right. When they picked me up, I saw my jingly leg, as if I had 3 more knees. I was taken to the smallest hospital in the little town we were in, miles and miles away from the city. The ride seems like a dream today. I remember telling my mom to calm down, as my dad tried to assimilate everything that had happened in just 3 minutes. more
Celine Read,Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic - tibia and ankle In the middle of a long weekend, living on an island, it is not rare to find almost everyone at the beach. That’s were it all happened. On January 29, 2012, I was with a friend riding in a beach car. Being in the passenger seat wasn’t much of an advantage, because minutes later the little car that seemed harmless was over my right leg. I remember how I didn't even feel the tears running down my face. It was a sudden shock. When the car was lifted up, I felt like somebody had ripped off my right leg from the knee down. I couldn't even breathe right. When they picked me up, I saw my jingly leg, as if I had 3 more knees. I was taken to the smallest hospital in the little town we were in, miles and miles away from the city. The ride seems like a dream today. I remember telling my mom to calm down, as my dad tried to assimilate everything that had happened in just 3 minutes. less
My life had turned 180 degrees around. As expected, the personnel in the tiny clinical center didn't have many sources to attend my case, so they applied a cast and did some xrays to see what type of fracture I had. My dad managed to get a helicopter to take me back to the city as fast as they could. As soon as I got there, they opened the cast. My leg was incredibly swollen. We went to a very good local hospital and I was attended by a physician who would ultimately become my orthopedist for the next 2 weeks. My leg was so swollen by the impact, they had to wait for it to drain completely before surgery. Two weeks passed by as I underwent 4 or 5 surgeries as well as draining processes.
My mom had been telling me about the plan of going to the US to verify if everything that had been done right. We researched everything about HSS; how it was ranked number 1 in orthopedics and had the best people to treat me. Dr. Austin Fragomen was the physician who took over my case. As soon as I went to the hospital, the kindness of everyone lessened the fright I felt as a teenager, away from everything I had before. I can definitely say you'll always be in the safest hands as soon as you come in contact with the hospital. I have to admit, when I went to my first appointment and was told "this has to be done again," I knew it was going to be a long ride. However, words of relief were told to me by the PA. “We always win," they said. And so we did.
After one month at the hospital, the previous external fixator was removed and they applied frames to hold my bones together. I got a bone graft, a skin graft (part of my skin was damaged as a consequence of the swelling), tibia and ankle surgery. I thank God every day for teaching me so much at such a young age, and for putting me in the hands of the best people in the world that could manage this tragic case. I will never be able to thank Dr. Fragomen enough for saving my leg. The people who work at this hospital are people that actually leave foot prints in your heart forever. I highly recommend HSS for any kind of orthopedic trauma case and I guarantee you'll be as thankful as I am.
It's a huge thing that now, mid-September, I am walking as I walked before the accident. Being an 18 year old starting a career you love, enjoying everyday as much as you can, and having all that taken away by a short moment isn't easy. I know I have a great future ahead of me, thanks to all of these great people at HSS.
Peter Bayers, New Milford, CT - Tibia/Femur Reconstruction In February 2011, I shattered my right lower tibia and snapped by fibula when an ice dagger collapsed with me on it as I was ice-climbing. A good friend, an orthopedic surgeon by the name of John Mullen, put me in touch with Dr. S. Robert Rozbruch at HSS because of the severity of my injury. more
Peter Bayers, New Milford, CT - Tibia/Femur Reconstruction In February 2011, I shattered my right lower tibia and snapped by fibula when an ice dagger collapsed with me on it as I was ice-climbing. A good friend, an orthopedic surgeon by the name of John Mullen, put me in touch with Dr. S. Robert Rozbruch at HSS because of the severity of my injury. less
The injury was so serious that one of Dr. Rozbruch's fellows told me later that he did not think my leg would heal. Well, using an Ilizarov fixator, Dr. Rozbruch worked a miracle and I healed beautifully. Not only that, but also out of curiosity, Dr. Rozbruch took an x-ray of an old serious injury to my left tibia, and right before I went in for my operation on my right leg, he told me I needed to fix my left leg too or I would be sorry when I was older. In June 2011, Dr. Rozbruch did reconstructive surgery on my left leg to straighten out my leg from an old injury. I had fixators on both legs for several months.
Dr. Rozbruch gave me my life back. I have returned to serious rock, ice, and Alpine climbing. I play soccer and am even running twenty miles a week – with no ill effects! Dr. Rozbruch is the Man! He made me confident at every stage, reassuring me that he could fix me, and treated me with his utmost attention, as if I was the most important patient he had. I would like to add that my entire experience interacting with various employees at HSS at all stages of my ordeal was nothing but positive. HSS is a special place because of its special people, from staff, to custodians, to nurses, to P.A.'s, to doctors. They were all kind, gracious, compassionate, and professional in all their expertise. Thank you Dr. Rozbruch and thank you HSS.
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Richard F. Levine,Poughkeepsie, NY – knee replacement surgery Dear Dr. Nestor,
When we discussed my double partial knee replacement prior to my June surgery, I told you that my goal was to return to the active life style that I was accustomed to. Well, I am happy to report that eight months later I have met and exceeded my goals. Note that prior to the surgery, I wore a deloader brace on one knee and the other knee did not let me walk for more than 50 yards without needing to stop to ease the pain.
Richard Levine skiing Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort
Richard F. Levine,Poughkeepsie, NY – knee replacement surgery Dear Dr. Nestor,
When we discussed my double partial knee replacement prior to my June surgery, I told you that my goal was to return to the active life style that I was accustomed to. Well, I am happy to report that eight months later I have met and exceeded my goals. Note that prior to the surgery, I wore a deloader brace on one knee and the other knee did not let me walk for more than 50 yards without needing to stop to ease the pain.
Richard Levine skiing Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort
August: I resumed golf but was temporarily sidelined by a hernia needing repair. Too bad you could not have found a way to improve my short game when you improved my knees.
September: I drove to Michigan to see my son and grandchildren. I then flew on to Santa Fe and southern New Mexico where I was able to hike into Carlsbad Cavern and around Gila and White Sands parks.
November: I resumed playing racquetball on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Although I was generally pretty sore the next day, this has greatly reduced over time. (An Aleve or Celebrex also helps on occasion). I usually only play twice a week but it is truly great to be back on the courts. I must admit that I don’t move like I used to but maybe that is also a product of being 69 years old.
January: Although, the northeast snow conditions left a lot to be desired, I skied for the first time and found no problem at all.
February: I took my yearly western ski vacation, this time in Utah. We met my son, daughter-in-law, and grandkids in Park City for four days. Then I took a day off when they left, and skied three more days. I skied in a foot of fresh powder at Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort on Feb 29th. Skiing is a lot less stressful on the knees than racquetball.
March: I left for my annual three foursome men’s only golf trip with long time friends. This year we went to New Orleans for 5 days of golf and enjoyment. Last year I wore a brace on one knee, took medication, and walked as little as possible. This year, I strolled as much as I could.
The bottom line is that I can do most everything I want and am not limited by the discomfort that sometimes follows my activities. Finally, I can truly say that I would make the exact same decisions I made last spring and want to deeply thank you for your advice, and skill, and thank the staff of HSS as well.
Richard Levine hiking in New Mexico
Richard Levine in Carlsbad Cavern
Richard Levine in Deer Valley
Josephine Moore, New Windsor, NY - spine surgery About a year ago I was suddenly afflicted with severe back and leg pains that I immediately recognized as the same symptom of a spinal disorder I had ten years earlier for which I had very successful surgery. The physician I had at the time had since retired so I began a search for a spinal surgeon from whom I could get a diagnosis and recommendation with which I could feel comfortable. I spent an extended period of time visiting physicians in well-known medical institutions all of whom strongly opposed surgery and recommended various alternatives. Some I followed without success; others I rejected. more
Josephine Moore, New Windsor, NY - spine surgery About a year ago I was suddenly afflicted with severe back and leg pains that I immediately recognized as the same symptom of a spinal disorder I had ten years earlier for which I had very successful surgery, The physician I had at the time had since retired so I began a search for a spinal surgeon from whom I could get a diagnosis and recommendation with which I could feel comfortable, I spent an extended period of time visiting physicians in well-known medical institutions all of whom strongly opposed surgery and recommended various alternatives. Some I followed without success; others I rejected. less
Having heard about the excellent results some relatives had with physicians at Hospital for Special Surgery, I decided to research it. After reviewing profiles of physicians in the HSS Orthopedic Department, the one I felt best suited for my needs was Dr. Bernard Rawlins. I called his office and was amazed at how pleasantly and promptly they scheduled an appointment for me. I knew from my first visit with Dr. Rawlins that I had found the physician for whom I was looking. Without noting all preliminary details, Dr. Rawlins performed spinal surgery on me and, in doing so, gave me new life. Within a few weeks, I was in excellent physical condition, free of pain and pills, and again engaged in my great passion for world travel. Whether at home or in some foreign land, I shall always remember Dr. Rawlins as "my angel with folded wings."
Carol J. Weilacher,Mahwah, NJ – knee replacement surgery On November 9, 2011, I had a total knee replacement. Dr. Steven Haas is not only an excellent surgeon, he is the Michaelangelo of knee surgery. I cannot thank Dr. Haas and his entire staff enough, plus the staff at HSS. I was cared for with kindness and compassion. Now, months later, the results have been wonderful. Thank you!
Roree Oehlman,Honokaa, HI – knee surgery, spinal injections I came to HSS after a complete series of missteps as to my diagnosis of rotator cuff injury, which was in reality, a rare, aggressive myxoma. I had traveled a great distance to HSS for help after I found out that they were rated number #1 and that they were near my daughters who live in NYC. Dr. Anil Ranawat jumped to action and referred me to Gregory R. Saboeiro, MD who did not concur with my original diagnosis of a cyst. He sent me to Dr. Ranawat for a referral for what appeared to be a cancerous mass. Dr. Athanasian was brought in, and he removed the mass. I have been clear of any recurrence thus far and, thank goodness, there was no cancer. I was able to go home where I completed a rough water swim, which I had not been able to do for years. more
Roree Oehlman,Honokaa, HI – knee surgery, spinal injections I came to HSS after a complete series of missteps as to my diagnosis of rotator cuff injury, which was in reality, a rare, aggressive myxoma. I had traveled a great distance to HSS for help after I found out that they were rated number #1 and that they were near my daughters who live in NYC. Dr. Anil Ranawat jumped to action and referred me to Gregory R. Saboeiro, MD who did not concur with my original diagnosis of a cyst. He sent me to Dr. Ranawat for a referral for what appeared to be a cancerous mass. Dr. Athanasian was brought in, and he removed the mass. I have been clear of any recurrence thus far and, thank goodness, there was no cancer. I was able to go home where I completed a rough water swim, which I had not been able to do for years. less
I returned to HSS last year after months of dealing with doctors who would not treat me or evaluate symptoms of pain in my back, knee, and numbness in my foot. I knew something was seriously wrong and I called Dr. Ranawat’s office. He ordered an MRI of my back and knee, and evaluated my foot which was not plantar fasciitis but rather radiculopathy from compressed nerves in my back. My back was a mess and my knee showed two torn meniscus. Dr. Ranawat and his team worked me in for a successful knee surgery and his staff helped coordinate other appointments for me with Dr. Castellano and Dr. Hughes.
After my consultations, I returned for Euflexxa treatments in my knee by Priya at Dr. Ranawat's office and Dr. Castellano performed spinal cortisone injections for my ruptured disc and other issues in my lumbar spine.
Are these people saints? Probably not, but in my book, they are close to it! They have restored my faith in medicine and given me hope. I was in so much pain that I was unable to tolerate anything and spent months in bed completely debilitated. I am in the process of scheduling my next series of appointments to deal with my back. I love this hospital and I recommend it as well as the doctors I have seen. This hospital and its people live up to their reputation. I love HSS!
Renate Swayze, Dover, NJ – spine surgery, pelvic surgery, knee replacement surgery I have been a patient at HSS five times. I have also had several procedures and a number of tests. From the x-ray technicians to the surgeons, I have always been treated with care and respect. I remember the x-ray technician who took great care in making sure the hospital bed I was in was pushed as closely to where I had to stand as possible. He understood the pain I was in. I remember the doctor who wanted me to begin a certain treatment before I was released and the assistant who managed to have it in my hands in only hours. After two spine surgeries, I am happy to say I am doing well and feel like a new person. I wish I could personally thank each and every person who had a part in my story at HSS. Thank you all.
Helena Blum,Glen Ridge, NJ – knee replacement surgery When the pain in my left knee got so bad that it started to hinder my pursuit of international folk dancing, I knew it was time for me to take action. I knew about the work done at Hospital for Special Surgery and my friend recommended Dr. Rozbruch, who had replaced both of her knees. The attention and treatment I received at the hospital, and the dedication and personal attention with which my knee replacement surgery was handled last year, is allowing me to continue dancing without any restrictions or pain. I am forever grateful to Dr. Rozbruch.
Mary Tancredi,Rocky Point, NY – knee and shoulder replacement surgery In 2001, I had my right knee replaced and in 2001, I had my left knee replaced. I was told it was either a wheelchair or replacement, so I chose the later. In 2011, I had my shoulder replaced due to a fall and severe arthritis. My surgeon, Dr. Gulotta, told me that in 6 months, I would be happy I had it done. Not so! I was happy in 6 weeks! I was so scared to have it done but it was the best thing I ever did. I had wonderful results from my knee surgery although it took about 6 months to appreciate what I went through. But my shoulder replacement was a piece of cake thanks to Dr. Gulotta - he's a great doctor.
Barbara Jean Smith, Laurel, NY – shoulder surgery When I separated my right shoulder in 1995, the doctor said the only thing that would help was time (and painkillers temporarily). It got somewhat better with time… and then worse. By 2011, I wasn’t able to reach across my desk at work to answer the phone. I sought help. The doctors in eastern Long Island gave me cortisone shots, to no avail. I made an appt with HSS and got in right away. Amazing people! I had bursitis, arthritis, bone spurs, and the joint was collapsing in on itself. My surgery was a week and a half later. Once again, amazing people! Dr. Beth Shubin Stein performed the surgery and I was on my way home 5 hours later. Yes, there was pain at first, but I have not had such a range of motion in 16 years. I’m now with little to no pain. Once again, amazing.
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Celine Read, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic - tibia and ankle
After one month at the hospital, the previous external fixator was removed and they applied frames to hold my bones together. I got a bone graft, a skin graft (part of my skin was damaged as a consequence of the swelling), tibia and ankle surgery. I thank God every day for teaching me so much at such a young age, and for putting me in the hands of the best people in the world that could manage this tragic case. 
Roree Oehlman, Honokaa, HI – knee surgery, spinal injections