Patient Testimonials

“To Whom It May Concern,

It is my privilege to write this letter of heartfelt recommendation for the NYC Joint and Spine Center – Englewood, NJ, and to commend the outstanding care I received from Dr. Thomas Youm, Dr. Jonathan Stieber, and their exceptional team.

On April 22, 2025, I underwent a total right shoulder replacement with a reverse shoulder implant performed by Dr. Youm. This was not my first experience with him, but it was, without question, one of the most flawless and professional medical experiences I’ve ever had.

Exceptional Team and Personalized Care:

I first met Dr. Youm in May 2024, referred by Dr. Jonathan Stieber, my trusted spine surgeon for over 11 years. At the time, I was preparing for spinal surgery and mentioned discomfort in my right shoulder. Dr. Youm conducted a thorough evaluation, which led to discovering that my previously replaced left shoulder had also failed. Due to my scheduled spinal procedure in June 2024, we delayed the shoulder revision, which was later performed by Dr. Youm on November 5, 2024.

My post-op follow-up took place at Dr. Youm’s brand-new Englewood office, where I learned that my right shoulder surgery would be done at their state-of-the-art Englewood Surgical Center.

Top-Tier Facility – A Game-Changer for New Jersey:

The NYC Joint and Spine Center in Englewood is a world-class, cutting-edge facility that rivals, and in many ways surpasses, major New York hospitals. The center is modern, pristine, and professionally staffed. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with warmth, attentiveness, and seamless coordination.

As a New Jersey resident, I appreciated the ease of access and parking, especially compared to the challenges of commuting into NYC. Having a high-caliber medical center like this in Englewood is a tremendous asset to our region.

The Surgical Experience:

The pre-surgical preparation was flawless. Cathy Lee, Dr. Youm’s surgical coordinator, guided me through every step—from scheduling to pre-op testing. She ensured that all seven prescriptions were filled two days before surgery, giving me complete peace of mind.

The day before surgery, I was personally fitted for my arm brace by Troy Plumitallo, whose expertise and attention to detail ensured a perfect fit, enhancing my recovery process.

On the day of surgery:

• I arrived at 6:00 AM, parked effortlessly, and was greeted by Adrienne Carey (Administrator) at the front desk, who had all documentation ready.
• By 6:30 AM, I was in pre-op, receiving care from Leah Jimenez, RN and Jazmine Yanez, RN.
• In the OR, Leon Wilson III, RN, Yvette Smallwood, CST, and Jeffrey LeVine, RT provided outstanding technical support.
• Dr. Luba Voinov, the anesthesiologist, explained the process thoroughly, which reassured both me and my wife.
• Dr. Amy Birnbaum, the assisting surgeon, and Dr. Youm ensured that I received world-class surgical care.

Post-op, the entire team gave clear, detailed instructions, answered all questions, and followed up daily to monitor my recovery.

Why NYC Joint and Spine Center – Englewood Stands Out:

• Dr. Jonathan Stieber: Trusted spine surgeon for over a decade.
• Dr. Thomas Youm: Exceptional orthopedic surgeon, committed to excellence.
• Cathy Lee: Surgical coordinator who leaves no detail overlooked.
• Troy Plumitallo: Expert brace fitting and pre-surgery support.
• Adrienne Carey, Leah Jimenez, RN, Jazmine Yanez, RN, Leon Wilson III, RN, Dr. Luba Voinov, Dr. Amy Birnbaum, Jeffrey LeVine, RT, Yvette Smallwood, CST: The dedicated and professional team at the Englewood Surgical Center.

Final Thoughts:

What Dr. Stieber and Dr. Youm have built at NYC Joint and Spine Center in Englewood is nothing short of remarkable. This top-tier facility offers big-city medical excellence with small-town convenience, and I highly recommend it to anyone in need of orthopedic or spine care.”

D S

“ Dr Youm repaired my meniscus and my sons. He is a great Doctor. Both my son and myself have fully recovered from our surgeries and are really happy with the results. The care we received in the office was phenomenal . Mayra C. is great, she was very helpful during our time there. she is very professional and she is good at what she does. ”

G H

“ I underwent knee arthroscopy with Dr. Youm. The surgery allowed me to play basketball, hike, golf, play baseball, and resume a physically active lifestyle without limitations. What stands out with Dr. Youm is the quality of care and efficiency of the procedure. I have already recommended a friend to Dr. Youm who has had surgery and successful treatment. ”

William Seiz