Departments

At Yale Medicine, our team of renowned physicians are leaders in the field of endocrinology. We specialize in understanding and treating the delicate balance of the endocrine system and the hormones that regulate essential body functions. Our physicians are also experts in the management of metabolic disease, which affects how your body processes food to create energy. We're here to provide you with advanced diagnostic and comprehensive treatment options that address these crucial hormonal and metabolic functions. Specialized care is offered in the following areas: Adrenal diseases, including adrenal masses, Cushing syndrome, hyperaldosteronism, and pheochromocytoma. Bone Center consists of a team of specialists with expertise in bone health who treat patients with bone diseases and disturbances in the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, a mineral that helps build bones. Center for Weight Management, which offers assistance with weight and weight-related health conditions. Diabetes Center is comprised of diabetes specialists who help patients manage their diabetes and prevent long-term complications. Endocrine cancers of the thyroid and adrenal glands. Pituitary conditions and complex disorders. Thyroid diseases, including hyperthyroidism, thyroiditis, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer.

The Center for Breast Cancer at Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center provides coordinated, state-of-the-art care for patients with benign and malignant diseases of the breast. For patients diagnosed with breast cancer , we offer dedicated care, innovative treatment options, and cutting-edge research. A great deal of progress in the detection and treatment of breast cancer has been made in recent years, and our physicians are on the leading edge of finding even better solutions. Women with a diagnosis of breast cancer are cared for by a multidisciplinary team of physician specialists, including radiologists, breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and plastic surgeons. From the tranquility of the building, to our complementary therapy services, to the most sophisticated personalized therapies and equipment available, Yale is committed to tailoring treatment to our patients to ensure they have the best experiences possible during their time in our care. Breast Surgery Although many general surgeons perform breast surgery, dedicated breast surgeons have the experience and knowledge to handle difficult or unusual cases, and are generally more likely to understand the complexities of breast diagnosis and treatment. The surgeons at the Center for Breast Cancer at Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center perform breast surgery exclusively, and are nationally known as leaders in their field. Yale surgeons were among the first to perform a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy, and were instrumental in the development of noninvasive procedures like sentinel lymph node biopsy, intraoperative guidance by ultrasound, and advanced oncoplastic procedures. Our surgeons are experienced in cutting-edge techniques, such as skin-sparing and nipple-sparing mastectomy, and often work hand-in-hand with our plastic surgeons to offer women a variety of options for breast reconstruction. Medical Oncology Many patients with breast cancer also need medical therapy, such as chemotherapy and/or endocrine therapy. Our team of experts utilizes both standard chemotherapies and novel targeted therapies to attack the cancer precisely while minimizing harm to normal tissues. Our medical oncologists are nationally recognized for their contributions to breast cancer research. For example, investigators at Yale helped to elucidate the biology of a cellular receptor called HER2. As a result, our medical oncologists have been successful in developing treatment strategies for HER2-positive breast cancer, and have extended this expertise to provide effective therapies for triple-negative/basal-like and hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. They continue to study new treatments, and patients at Smilow Cancer Hospital have the opportunity to receive such novel therapies through clinical trials, many of which are not available elsewhere in Connecticut. New and complicated patient cases are discussed weekly by the entire team so that

Our surgeons and clinical specialists are dedicated to improving the lives of adults and children affected by cancer treatments, congenital defects, degenerative diseases, and traumatic injuries. Providers offer patients the most effective, safest, and current surgical techniques, paired with individualized, compassionate care. In caring for our patients, we harness the latest in medical care and technologies, as well as the safest, most effective cosmetic surgical procedures. Our expertise ensures that, whenever possible, our patients experience shorter hospital stays and less postoperative discomfort. Our surgeons are also experts in enhancing the aesthetic balance of the face and contours of the body, creating a more youthful appearance and improving symmetry. Our team includes leading plastic surgeons, clinical specialists, and nurse practitioners who work together to address each patient’s needs in managing adult and pediatric conditions that require plastic and reconstructive surgery. Specialized care is offered in the following areas: Airway and sleep disorders Breast reconstruction Cosmetic surgery Craniofacial conditions Hand and microsurgery Maxillofacial and orthognathic surgery Melanoma and skin cancer Developed procedures, such as the barrel stave osteotomy, for novel comprehensive skull care for children born with skull deformities Developed important data defining neuropsychological outcomes for children with such craniofacial disorders as craniofacial and plagiocephaly Active participants and leaders in such humanitarian care organizations as Operation Smile and Hand Help

Patients seek us out when they encounter obstacles on their journey toward parenthood. Our Fertility Center offers a host of treatment options to individuals and couples who experience infertility or who need third-party assistance to have a baby. Our clinicians work with couples who experience infertility, as well as same-sex couples, individuals without partners, and transgender individuals . They also offer fertility preservation techniques to cancer patients and others who wish to put off pregnancy until the future, so that they may preserve their chances of one day having a baby using their own sperm or eggs. Our clinicians provide empathetic care while learning about each patient’s circumstances. They then tailor each patient’s treatment plan to suit their specific situation. Individualizing their care increases each patient’s chances of achieving their goal of parenthood. We offer several convenient locations, including a facility at Yale West Campus in Orange, Connecticut, that offers free parking. At the Fertility Center, our physicians, staff, and scientists all share our patients’ dreams of expanding their families. Our team of reproductive endocrinologists includes some of the world’s foremost experts on in vitro fertilization (IVF) , fertility preservation, endometriosis , and recurrent pregnancy loss . We’re also one of the few fertility centers in the U.S. to have a reproductive specialist with dual training in both male and female infertility. All registered nurses at the Fertility Center have received specialized training in IVF through the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Our team of financial coordinators works with patients to help them figure out how their health insurance covers costs relating to fertility treatments. They inform patients about this important information before anyone commits to undergoing any procedures, so that patients don’t receive unexpected fees. Coping with infertility may feel isolating at times, but our team of clinicians and staff will be there alongside you, providing you with support as well as treatment strategies. We do everything we can to help you get closer to realizing your goal of becoming a parent. Fertility Center success rate summary: Approximately 79% of new patients under age 35 achieve successful pregnancies after undergoing IVF. For new patients ages 35-37, the live birth rate is approximately 67.6%. For new patients ages 38-40, the live birth rate is approximately 46%. Learn more about our success rates .

Bone is a living tissue. It is not simply an 'erector set' that keeps us upright; it must renew itself throughout life. Bone health at any age requires a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet with plenty of calcium, and regular exercise. These factors are important in childhood and adolescence to achieve the strongest bones possible and for maintaining bone health in adulthood. Our goal is to help our patients build and keep healthy bones. We specialize in the prevention, treatment, and comprehensive care for adults and children with bone diseases and disturbances in the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, a mineral that helps build bones. Our highly skilled team cares for patients through a multidisciplinary approach. Specialists and caregivers include endocrinologists, orthopaedists, physical therapists, nurses, and nutritionists. Bone Center physicians are all faculty at Yale School of Medicine with nationally recognized expertise in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of bone disorders. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratory aids in the treatment of the most difficult disorders. Although normal levels of sex hormones are important throughout life, the decision about hormone replacement therapy is especially important during menopause in women. Hormones are not right for everyone, and other treatments to protect bones are now available. Our services include: Osteoporosis Screening: Osteoporosis, a common bone disease, is an area of particular expertise at the Bone Center. Measuring bone density is recommended to determine a patient’s risk for this condition. We offer a screening program and provide the patient’s doctor with a complete report that includes information about individual risk factors for bone loss.

For individuals or couples diagnosed with infertility after a thorough evaluation, our clinicians may recommend in vitro fertilization (IVF) to help them start a family. During the IVF process, eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory setting to form embryos. An embryo is then implanted into the patient’s uterus when circumstances are optimal. IVF stands as one of the most effective fertility treatments available, significantly enhancing the chances of pregnancy for patients. It may be advised for female infertility conditions, such as damaged fallopian tubes or severe endometriosis , or for male infertility -related issues, such as low sperm count or abnormal sperm. Additionally, IVF might be suggested in cases where the cause of infertility remains unknown. Our IVF program operates within a state-of-the-art laboratory featuring LifeAire technology, an innovative air purification system known for its advanced filtration techniques. This system ensures optimal air quality by eliminating up to 99.99% of biological and chemical contaminants, safeguarding eggs, sperm, and embryos from harmful airborne substances. The laboratory is staffed by experienced embryologists with doctorate degrees, contributing to our high success rates in IVF. Throughout the IVF journey, patients receive support from caring clinicians who address their questions and concerns. Recognizing the emotional weight of the process for individuals hoping to start or expand their family, our providers strive to minimize stress and foster meaningful patient-provider relationships. When IVF is recommended, patients meet with a financial counselor to confirm health insurance coverage before starting treatment. (Prior authorization from health insurers is typically required.) An IVF cycle typically aligns with the onset of the patient’s menstrual cycle, when multiple eggs are available for maturation in the ovaries. Unlike natural ovulation, where only one egg matures each month, IVF protocols involve administering medications to stimulate the maturation of multiple eggs. Patients undergo periodic evaluations by clinicians to monitor hormone levels and progress through ultrasound studies and blood tests, enabling adjustments to the treatment protocol as needed. During the cycle, patients receive injectable hormones to promote the growth of eggs and prevent their premature release. A final hormone injection triggers egg release approximately 36 hours before a scheduled egg retrieval procedure at the hospital. The egg retrieval procedure, performed under anesthesia, involves the clinician using ultrasound guidance to collect mature eggs from the ovaries through a thin needle inserted via the vaginal wall. Subsequently, the retrieved eggs are fertilized in the IVF laboratory. Depending on sperm health, fertilization occurs either by surrounding each egg with a large number of sperm or by injecting individual sperm into each egg. Fertilized eggs are then incubated, and embryo devel

Yale Cancer Center is Connecticut's only cancer center designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute—and one of only 57 in the nation. The significance of this designation has profound implications for those who choose Smilow Cancer Hospital as the place where they will be cared for and receive treatment for their cancer. National Cancer Institute cancer centers are national leaders in cancer research, prevention, detection, and treatment. This provides patients at Smilow Cancer Hospital with novel treatment options and expert care.

Although perimenopause and menopause represent natural stages in a woman’s life, some women may find the common symptoms of this stage burdensome to the point of affecting their quality of life. On average, women experience menopause at age 51. Approximately 1% of women experience “premature” menopause, which occurs before age 40. (Menopause is considered “early”—but not premature—when it happens after age 40 but before 45.) Some medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, and some treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and ovarian surgeries, may increase the risk of early or premature menopause. Both premature and early menopause can be particularly burdensome—not only are the physical symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness) more severe, but the psychological distress that accompanies an early onset of menopause can be particularly stressful, especially for women who may not have met their fertility goals. Our team of clinicians is equipped to help optimize the quality of life and health of the reproductively aging population of women by addressing their symptom burden, as well as identifying and minimizing their long-term health risks (such as osteoporosis or fractures). Our team is equally responsive to the reproductive needs and goals of our patients. Our Fertility Preservation Program addresses the needs of those who require treatments that may result in ovarian compromise or early ovarian failure. Our Third-Party Reproduction Program is committed to helping women with premature and early menopause meet their fertility goals through the use of donor eggs or gestational surrogacy . Our clinicians strive to serve our perimenopausal and menopausal patients’ immediate medical needs while also anticipating and reducing the risk of health problems that may arise in the future.

Patients often hesitate to discuss miscarriages, or spontaneous pregnancy losses. While one miscarriage might prompt a doctor's visit, experiencing two or more losses warrants a thorough examination for underlying reproductive issues. Yale Medicine’s Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program assembles experts from various fields to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to patients facing this condition. We utilize cutting-edge technologies for diagnosis and tailor individualized treatments to address the root cause. Recurrent pregnancy loss is defined as two or more failed pregnancies, including those confirmed via pregnancy blood test or ultrasound. Miscarriage is relatively common, affecting 15% to 20% of known pregnancies within the first 20 weeks. However, experiencing two or more consecutive losses, which affects 1%-3% of pregnancies, may indicate underlying genetic, physiological, or anatomical issues. Anatomic abnormalities in the uterus, such as fibroids , polyps, adhesions, or the presence of a septum dividing the uterine cavity, can lead to pregnancy complications. Hormonal disorders, like uncontrolled diabetes or thyroid issues , can also contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss. Additionally, chromosomal abnormalities in embryos, autoimmune conditions, infections, and lifestyle factors, such as smoking, drug use, caffeine and alcohol consumption, toxin exposure, and obesity, may play a role. Our multidisciplinary team works closely with patients to identify potential contributing factors while offering emotional support during this challenging time. Initial assessments include a thorough review of medical history, physical examinations, specialized ultrasounds, and consultations with specialists, such as reproductive endocrinologists, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, reproductive immunologists, geneticists, and pathologists. We employ advanced diagnostic techniques, including genetic testing and analysis of fetal tissue, to pinpoint underlying causes. Our team includes psychological counselors, dietitians, and experienced nurses who provide comprehensive support throughout diagnosis and treatment. At Yale Medicine, our Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program combines compassionate care with state-of-the-art genetic analysis. Following a definitive diagnosis, we offer customized treatment options, which may include surgical interventions to address anatomical abnormalities, in vitro fertilization (IVF) , or a genetic screening of embryos. Even in cases where a specific cause cannot be identified, the outlook remains positive, with the majority of subsequent pregnancies proceeding normally. Throughout the process, we remain dedicated to understanding the root cause of difficulties and providing empathy and reassurance to patients facing recurrent pregnancy loss.

We specialize in the treatment of children with type 1 diabetes, offering comprehensive care and support for patients and their families. Ourteam of physicians, nurse practitioners/certified diabetes educators, nurses, social workers, psychologists,and nutritionists is dedicated to educating and supporting children, adolescents, and parents as they cope with this disease. We place a special emphasis on technological tools, as well as clinical research that can help our patients manage their diabetes. For our teen and young adult patients who are preparing to transition to adult diabetes care and are learning to manage their diabetes on their own, we offer the Yale FORGE Ahead Bridge Diabetes Program. FORGE stands for: Form new relationships Orient to the future Reach out for support Gain new knowledge Embrace life … Ahead and Bridge We recognize that teens and young adults need a different kind of support as they prepare to manage diabetes on their own. We aim to: Better address the unique needs of teens with type 1 diabetes who are transitioning into adulthood Support efforts for patients to assume full responsibility for their own diabetes management and exercise healthy behavior. At the Bridge Clinic, patients will have a team visit with a nurse practitioner trained in both pediatric and adult diabetes, along with our clinical nutritionist and social worker. The team will help guide patients through the transition to adult care.

Our focus is on helping patients feel better about the way they look. We offer plastic and reconstructive services for patients who want to regain or retain a youthful appearance, enhance the contours of their body, or have a more symmetrical facial structure. We provide the most current cosmetic surgical procedures for facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and aesthetic breast surgery. We also offer nonsurgical services, such as BOTOX®, dermal fillers, and facial rejuvenation and resurfacing.We have pioneered and developed some of the most effective treatments available for body contouring and aesthetic facial surgery. We provide consultations in our office where our team provides individualized care and attention to each patient. During the planning stage, we use the most sophisticated 3-D imaging tools available. With 3-D photo imaging, 3-D CT scan imaging, and special software programs, we can simulate proposed outcomes so that patients can see the results before surgery. We discuss aesthetic goals and educate patients about the best possible solutions to achieve the outcome they want, so that they can feel comfortable and confident about their decision.

The Fetal Care Center brings together a team of leading experts in maternal-fetal medicine , neonatology , genetics , pediatric surgery , and an array of other top-ranked pediatric specialties. This network of excellence from throughout our health system comes together to provide an elite level of care. Together, a comprehensive care plan is devised for pregnant patients and their developing babies who require specialized medical and surgical care while in the womb or expected interventions after birth. Our expert physicians and surgeons have ensured successful births for thousands of babies who needed specialized care. As leaders in complex in-utero surgery, we are proud to be the first in Connecticut and the region to perform in utero myelomeningocele repair. Myelomeningocele is a condition in which the baby’s backbone and spinal canal do not close before birth. The condition, a type of spina bifida , is a congenital defect of the spine and spinal cord. The surgery is performed before the baby is born (prior to 26 weeks gestation) as this provides the best outcomes. Provided world-class fetal therapy services at Yale New Haven Health for more than 40 years Pioneered the nation’s first Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Yale New Haven Health Yale New Haven Health is one of only a few hospitals in the country to offer couplet care, where mothers and their babies are cared for together in the same room Many procedures available to women with high-risk pregnancies were first developed at Yale School of Medicine’s Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences , including noninvasive fetal anemia assessment, percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS), in utero fetal blood transfusion, and therapies such as fetoscopy and fetal surgery Physicians are leading researchers in the field of fetal medicine A fetal therapy coordinator is available to help patients through the process. The coordinator is there throughout the patient’s care journey, from pregnancy through delivery, and often beyond. They guide patients through testing, meeting with specialists, scheduling appointments, and coordinating the elements of the care plan based on the patient’s needs. For more information or to request an appointment, please call 855-433-8252 , or submit a Fetal Care Center Information Request . Someone is available to answer your call from Monday through Friday, 8am – 4:30pm. Read our list of frequently asked questions about the Fetal Care Center . Here are some of the common conditions we treat at the Fetal Care Center: Cleft lip/palate Congenital heart defects Fetal anemias Gastroschisis Hydrocephalus Intra-abdominal masses Spina Bifida Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome View the full list of conditions . Advanced Prenatal Genetic Testing and Counseling Genetic counseling and prenatal testing are among the most valuable tools to help prospective parents make important decisions regarding a current or future pregnancy. Many things