If you are suffering from joint pain, a sports injury, or a complex back issue, you want the best possible care to get back on your feet. For millions of people, that choice is Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS). Located in the heart of New York City, HSS is the oldest orthopedic hospital in the United States and has been ranked #1 in the nation for orthopedics for 16 consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report.1
In 2026, HSS continues to set the global standard for bone, joint, and muscle health.2 This guide explains why HSS is the top destination for specialized surgery and how you can access their world-class expertise.
Unmatched Success Rates and Patient Safety
When it comes to surgery, experience matters. HSS performs more hip and knee replacements than any other hospital in the world. Because their surgeons do the same procedures thousands of times, they have mastered the art of “perfect” outcomes.
- Lowest Infection Rates: HSS has some of the lowest surgical infection rates in the country.3 This is vital because infections are the biggest risk in orthopedic surgery.4
- High Volume, High Success: HSS surgeons perform over 40,000 surgeries every year.5 At HSS, “rare” procedures at other hospitals are considered routine.
- Rapid Recovery: Using advanced regional anesthesia (which HSS helped pioneer), patients often experience less pain and a much faster return to daily activities.6
HSS vs. National Averages
| Performance Metric | HSS Rating | National Average |
| Orthopedic Ranking | #1 | Varies |
| Infection Rate | Ultra-Low | Average |
| Readmission Rate | Lowest in Nation | Average |
| Patient Satisfaction | 99th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
Specialized Care for Every Body
HSS is not just for professional athletes, though they are the official hospital for the New York Giants, Mets, Knicks, and Brooklyn Nets.7 They provide the same elite-level care to everyone, from children with scoliosis to seniors needing a second hip replacement.
Key Areas of Expertise:
- Joint Replacement: Experts in total hip, knee, and shoulder replacements using robotic-assisted technology.
- Spine Surgery: Advanced treatments for herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and complex deformities.
- Sports Medicine: Treatment for ACL tears, rotator cuff injuries, and meniscus repairs.
- Rheumatology: Ranked #3 in the U.S. for treating autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.8
Innovative Technology in 2026
In 2026, HSS is leading the charge in “Smart” orthopedic care. They use digital 3D modeling to create custom implants that fit your body’s exact shape.
- Computer-Assisted Surgery: This allows for perfect alignment of new joints, which means they last longer—often 20 to 30 years.
- HSS eAcademy: A global digital platform where HSS doctors teach their techniques to thousands of other surgeons around the world.
- Motion Analysis Lab: High-tech cameras and sensors track how you move to find the exact cause of your pain.
Navigating Insurance and Costs at HSS
Because HSS is a world-class facility, many patients worry about the cost. However, HSS is committed to “Price Transparency” and works with a wide range of insurance providers.9
How to Manage Your Bill:
- Check Your Plan: HSS participates in many major networks, including Medicare and various managed care plans.10
- Financial Assistance: HSS offers a generous Financial Assistance Program. If your income is below a certain level, you may qualify for free or discounted care, even if you are underinsured.
- Get an Estimate: Use the HSS online cost estimator tool. By entering your CPT code (the code for your surgery), you can see what your out-of-pocket costs will look like before you arrive.
How to Get Started
You do not need to live in New York to benefit from HSS. They have locations across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and a specialized facility in Florida (HSS Florida).11
- Virtual Consults: You can book a video visit with an HSS specialist from anywhere in the world.
- Second Opinions: If your local doctor suggests surgery, you can have an HSS expert review your scans to confirm if it’s the right move.
- International Services: For patients traveling from outside the U.S., HSS has a dedicated team to help with travel, lodging, and medical records.12
Take the Next Step: Don’t live with chronic joint or back pain. Contact the HSS Access Center or visit their website today to schedule a consultation. Whether you are an elite athlete or just want to walk in the park again, the world’s #1 orthopedic team is ready to help you move better.