James Borin, MD

I chose to specialize in urology when I learned about urologists’ pioneering use of advanced technology to make procedures less invasive and less painful. After my residency, I completed a fellowship with a urologist who was the first in the world to use laparoscopy for kidney removal and who developed many techniques for minimally invasive treatment of kidney stones.

I primarily focus on treating people who have kidney stones, kidney cancer, and ureteral strictures. For each of these conditions, there are often several different treatment options available, which I discuss thoroughly with my patients. My goal is to provide them with the information they need, so that together, we can choose the best plan of care.

For many patients, one option is observation, which may allow someone to delay or even completely avoid surgery. This is often the initial strategy for small kidney tumors and small kidney stones. Sometimes, however, surgery is the best treatment option, because it can relieve pain or prevent future problems. The majority of the surgeries I perform are minimally invasive, meaning there is little to no incision required.

We have an excellent treatment team at NYU Langone. I work with several other physicians, including nephrologist Dr. David Goldfarb, a renowned expert in the medical treatment of recurrent kidney stones. We collaborate in the evaluation and treatment of kidney stones, which can include dietary recommendations and medication to prevent future stones.

In my practice, I look at what treatment strategy is best for each person. For many people there is no “right” answer, which is why I work with every person to determine what will make the most sense for his or her personality and lifestyle.

I have written more than 30 papers and book chapters on minimally invasive urologic surgery and have lectured on the subject on six continents. I serve on the editorial board of a urology journal and have been recognized by Castle Connolly’s “Top Doctors” series for the New York metro area and in its “America’s Top Doctors” series.