Layla Alvandi

As a fifteen year old, I had my first scoliosis surgery done in Houston, Texas, which I later learned would require revisions ten years later. Since I had relocated in New York, I naturally researched surgeons in the city to help me consider the best options for retaining mobility as well as reducing pain. Fortunately, I chose to consult with Dr. Matthew Cunningham and immediately found his pleasant demeanor and thoughtful manner of asking the right questions, while taking the time to thoroughly address all of my concerns, to be a perfect doctor/ patient fit. Skillfully and thoroughly, Dr. Cunningham took the time necessary to explain clearly what was going on in my spine, clarifying exactly what my x-rays showed and offering me a specific treatment plan after his making sure that it made perfect sense to me. Following spinal injections and physical therapy, I had revision surgeries done in May 2011, and in November and December 2012 at HSS with Dr. Cunningham. It would be impossible to undergo this amount of revision surgery without the genuine support and caring concern of Dr. Cunningham and his outstanding office staff. Without Tina Miller's organized professionalism and concern for details, while keeping me informed and supporting me, I could not have scheduled and successfully completed the three surgeries and hospital stays. Dr. Cunningham's office reflects the man, for here you always find thoughtful, caring interest in you as an individual person and insightful treatment recommendations. This makes me feel less of a patient and more of a partner and part of a team with the common goal to heal. If only more doctors could combine Dr. Cunningham's top of the profession skill in the operating room with his genuine concern and interest in every patient's progress!