When your child needs surgery, only the top experts and the safest, most effective procedures will do. That's exactly what you'll find at Columbia's program. We take a comprehensive approach to pediatric surgical care, working closely with our partners in pediatric anesthesiology, neonatology, and all pediatric medical subspecialties to deliver a level of service and quality that marks us as one of the top programs in the country.
What sets us apart
Top Quality
We are proud to be part of the #1 ranked children's hospital in New York by US News and World Report and one of the only designated Level 1 pediatric surgery centers in the northeast, according to the American College of Surgeons. Several of our subprograms, like our Adolescent Bariatric Surgery service and our ECMO Life Support service, have earned individual honors as well.
More Options
As part of a major academic center, our resources allow us to deliver services and techniques that other programs simply can't provide. We offer advanced minimally invasive procedures for a variety of pediatric diseases, and we are the only Center in the tri-state area that offers fetal repair of myelomeningocele, a severe form of spina bifida.
A Family-First Approach
We are committed to making your child's entire surgical journey as easy as possible, for them and for you. From taking the time to answer your every question before the procedure to making sure you have a comfortable bed to sleep on during their hospital stay, we strive to infuse all our care with respect, compassion, and clear communication.

When you choose Columbia for your child's surgery, you will have the resources of a world-class institution behind you, one that has been at the forefront of advancing pediatric care across all specialties. Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital is proud of our tradition of innovation, and we continue to seek out new and better ways to help all children.
Tiny Patients, Big Solutions: A Closer Look at Fetal Surgery Innovations
Who We Treat
We provide comprehensive, family-centered care for infants, children, and adolescents with a wide range of surgical conditions. Our team combines advanced surgical expertise, including minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, with dedicated support services that keep families involved and supported throughout their child’s care journey.
Conditions We Treat
Learn about some of the pediatric conditions we treat regularly including their symptoms, outlook, and much more with our educational health guides.
Treatments We Offer
We offer a variety of diagnosis and treatment options. Read our guides below to learn more about a few of our options, including what to expect and how to prepare for treatment.
Starting Life with Gastroschisis, Ethan Was Born to Be Brave
Key Clinical Programs
Spina Bifida/ Myelomeningocele Care
Fetal & Newborn Surgery
We offer the only program in New York City providing fetal intervention for myelomeningocele.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Care
Fetal & Newborn Surgery
Our program brings together a multidisciplinary team to plan care before birth and support children throughout development.
Chest Wall Abnormality Care
Childhood & Adolescent Surgery
We treat pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum using a multidisciplinary approach to deliver expert surgical care and optimal outcomes.
Adolescent Weight Loss Care
Childhood & Adolescent Surgery
Our center specializes in minimally invasive weight loss surgery, offering expert care that can support significant long-term health improvements.
Partner Programs
Some children’s surgical needs require the expertise of multiple specialists. Through our partner programs, families have access to coordinated care from leading teams in congenital heart care, craniofacial surgery, pediatric cancer care, and transplantation.
For more information about our offerings for Fetal & Newborn Surgery, Childhood & Adolescent Surgery or to learn about our Partner Programs, visit our programs and services page
Highlights of Our Center
Our program combines world-class surgical expertise, advanced technology, and a collaborative approach to deliver exceptional care for children with a wide range of surgical needs. We support patients and families every step of the way with specialized resources designed to make the surgical journey easier.
Care at the Leading Children's Hospital in New York
We are part of NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, one of the top pediatric care centers in the nation, and one of the only designated Level 1 pediatric surgery centers in the Northeast. We have been treating children with the most urgent surgical needs for decades.
Comprehensive Care Across All Specialties
Many pediatric conditions affect more than one area or system of the body. Columbia is home to top experts in all areas of pediatric medicine. Our surgeons partner with specialists to provide coordinated, comprehensive care.
A Focus On Minimally Invasive Treatments
Columbia has been at the forefront of minimally invasive surgical techniques, and we continue to lead the way with new, innovative treatments, including prenatal surgery to correct congenital birth defects.
Leading Research and Clinical Trials for Tomorrow's Care
As one of the world's leading research hospitals, Columbia is constantly developing newer, safer surgical techniques and treatments. As a patient, your child may have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials focusing on new approaches to diagnosing or treating their condition. Search our database of ongoing clinical trials »
Support for the Entire Family
We understand how difficult it can be to help your child navigate the challenges of a serious illness. And we know that it takes a tremendous toll on parents and families, too. Our family-centered approach is designed to remind you that you’re part of your child’s care team. We will answer your questions and keep you up to date at every step of your child’s care journey. We offer programs and services to make sure you have all the support you need, so you can focus on what really matters.
In our series, Routine Procedures, we take a closer look at the daily habits—from breakfast choices to favorite shoes—that shape how our surgeons show up, treat, operate, plan, and keep going day after day.
Read what some of our surgeons have to say
Our Team
Meet our team of nationally recognized pediatric surgeons, dedicated to providing exceptional care for children with both common and complex surgical conditions. Through close collaboration, advanced surgical expertise, and a family-centered approach, we help patients receive the right care at every stage of childhood.
William Middlesworth, MD
Director, Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Program NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
Jeffrey L. Zitsman, MD
Director, Center for Adolescent Bariatric Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital
To learn more, visit our team and locations page.
Our Locations
NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York
3959 Broadway (166th Street and Broadway)
New York, NY 10032
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NewYork-Presbyterian The One
1111 Westchester Ave
White Plains, NY 10604
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To learn more, visit our team and locations page.
State of the Union: Pediatric Surgery Today
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