The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), located in New York City, is widely recognized as the number one orthopedic hospital in the world. With a legacy of excellence that spans over 160 years, HSS has become a trusted name for patients seeking world-class treatment in orthopedics, rheumatology, sports medicine, and rehabilitation.
Whether you’re an athlete with a torn ligament, someone suffering from chronic joint pain, or in need of complex spine surgery, HSS offers expert care using the latest medical advancements.
Why Hospital for Special Surgery Stands Out
Unmatched Expertise in Orthopedics
HSS is ranked number one in orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report for over a decade. Their surgeons perform more than 35,000 surgeries annually, making it one of the busiest and most experienced orthopedic centers globally.
Their focus areas include:
- Joint Replacement (Hip, Knee, Shoulder)
- Spine Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Foot and Ankle Surgery
- Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Because of their specialization, HSS surgeons often handle cases that are too complex for other hospitals.
World-Class Physicians and Surgeons
The medical team at HSS includes over 500 physicians, many of whom are leaders in their specialties. These professionals are not only practicing clinicians but also researchers and educators at top medical schools like Weill Cornell Medicine, an academic affiliate of HSS.
They are known for:
- Performing minimally invasive procedures
- Developing innovative surgical techniques
- Creating custom treatment plans based on patient needs
Low Infection Rates and High Patient Satisfaction
Another factor that sets HSS apart is its extremely low rate of surgical infections, thanks to specialized operating rooms and strict hygiene protocols. Patient satisfaction is also remarkably high, with 90 percent of patients recommending HSS to others.
Key statistics:
- Over 94 percent of joint replacement patients walk the same day after surgery.
- Fewer complications and readmissions than the national average.
- Rated as one of the top hospitals for safety and outcomes.
Specialized Care for Athletes
Trusted by Professional Sports Teams
HSS is the official hospital for numerous professional sports teams, including:
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Knicks (NBA)
- New York Mets (MLB)
- Brooklyn Nets (NBA)
Top athletes from around the world fly to HSS for surgeries, rehabilitation, and consultations. Their Sports Medicine Institute is a state-of-the-art facility that helps athletes get back in the game faster and safer.
Sports Rehab and Performance Center
Their sports rehabilitation center offers personalized therapy programs designed to:
- Improve mobility
- Prevent injuries
- Boost athletic performance
- Support post-surgery recovery
From elite athletes to weekend warriors, HSS helps patients return to peak physical condition with tailored care plans.
Leading in Rheumatology and Autoimmune Diseases
Aside from orthopedics, HSS is also a leader in rheumatology, treating conditions like:
- Lupus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
The Barbara Volcker Center for Women and Rheumatic Disease is one of the only centers in the U.S. dedicated to women with autoimmune conditions. HSS is consistently ranked in the top five hospitals for rheumatology care nationwide.
Research and Innovation at HSS

Cutting-Edge Research
The HSS Research Institute conducts groundbreaking studies on bone and joint health. They focus on:
- Regenerative medicine
- Stem cell therapy
- Implant technology
- Injury prevention and recovery
With more than 400 active clinical trials, HSS contributes significantly to the advancement of orthopedic and musculoskeletal science.
Innovation in Surgery and Technology
HSS has pioneered several surgical innovations, such as:
- Robotic-assisted joint replacement
- 3D-printed implants
- Customized surgical navigation tools
These innovations allow for greater precision, faster recovery, and fewer complications.
Patient-Centered Approach
At HSS, patients are not just numbers—they are treated like family. The hospital takes a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, where surgeons, therapists, nurses, and nutritionists work together to create a seamless care experience.
Services include:
- Pre-surgical education programs
- Dedicated patient navigators
- Telemedicine consultations
- Translation and international services
Global Reach and Medical Tourism
Every year, thousands of patients from more than 100 countries travel to HSS for treatment. The hospital has a Global Patient Services team to assist international patients with:
- Medical records translation
- Visa support
- Accommodation arrangements
- Post-operative care planning
HSS is one of the top choices for medical tourism in the United States.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The main campus is located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, overlooking the East River. In addition to the flagship hospital, HSS has multiple satellite locations across:
- New Jersey
- Connecticut
- Long Island
- Westchester
- Florida (HSS Florida in West Palm Beach)
Each location maintains the same high standards of care and access to top specialists.
Training the Next Generation
HSS is also a teaching hospital, offering fellowships and residency programs in:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Rheumatology
- Anesthesiology
- Radiology
- Physical therapy
Medical students and residents from across the globe train at HSS to learn from the best in the field.
Awards and Accreditations
HSS has earned several prestigious recognitions, such as:
- Magnet Recognition for Nursing Excellence
- Number one Orthopedic Hospital by U.S. News & World Report (15 years straight)
- Leapfrog A Grade for Hospital Safety
- Top Performer by Press Ganey for Patient Experience
These awards validate HSS’s commitment to quality, safety, and excellence.
What Patients Say About HSS
Patient reviews consistently highlight:
- Life-changing care
- Highly skilled surgeons
- Caring and attentive staff
- Clean, modern facilities
- Minimal wait times and smooth process
Many patients describe their experience at HSS as the best medical care they’ve ever received.
Getting Treatment at HSS
Steps to Get Started:
- Request a consultation via the HSS website or by phone.
- Send your medical records for evaluation.
- Schedule an appointment (in-person or virtual).
- Get a personalized treatment plan.
- Arrange surgery and aftercare, if needed.
Their care coordinators make the process simple and efficient, even for patients traveling from afar.
Conclusion: The Global Gold Standard in Orthopedic Care
The Hospital for Special Surgery is more than just a hospital—it’s a global symbol of hope, healing, and high-quality care. Whether you’re seeking treatment for a sports injury, chronic joint pain, or an autoimmune disorder, HSS offers unparalleled medical expertise and compassion.
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