Friedreich’s Ataxia Treatment in Memorial Göztepe Hospital

Friedreich’s ataxia treatment at Memorial Göztepe Hospital in Istanbul focuses on advanced robotic rehabilitation led by specialists with over 20 years of experience. Diagnostic options for this condition may cost around $300 for a consultation, while an MRI of the brain and spine is around $1,800, and polysomnography typically runs between $1,800–$2,300. The hospital holds JCI and ISO accreditations, operating a dedicated center for neuromuscular diseases to manage complex coordination disorders.

Diagnostic procedures

Accurate monitoring of neurological changes is vital for managing Friedreich’s ataxia. The hospital provides a variety of imaging and testing tools to track disease progression and plan therapy:

• Consultation with treatment plan. A meeting with a specialist costs around $300 to establish a rehabilitation strategy.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT). This imaging test of the retina is around $400.
• MRI scans. A scan of a single area is around $1,100, while a detailed MRI of the brain and spine with contrast is around $1,800.
• Polysomnography. This sleep study helps monitor neurological respiratory issues and may cost between $1,800–$2,300.

Robotic rehabilitation and therapy

The clinic uses robotic rehabilitation systems to help patients with movement and balance deficits. These technologies allow for precise, repetitive movements that are difficult to achieve through traditional therapy alone. Treatment is led by Prof. Dr. Engin Çakar, who has over 20 years of experience in physical medicine and electrodiagnostic neurology. Prof. Dr. Çakar specializes in using these systems to treat neurodegenerative conditions.

Rehabilitation plans at the Neuromuscular Diseases Center include:

• Robotic-assisted gait training. This helps improve walking patterns and leg strength.
• Balance training. Targeted exercises help manage the coordination loss typical of ataxia.
• Neurological physiotherapy. Sessions focus on maintaining muscle tone and preventing secondary complications.
• Electrodiagnostic neurology. These tests help Prof. Dr. Çakar monitor nerve and muscle function during the recovery process.

Specialized facilities and care

Memorial Göztepe Hospital is a Leed Platinum certified facility featuring a hybrid operating room and a dedicated clinical research unit. The hospital integrates robotic systems with traditional physical therapy to help patients regain mobility. While intensive rehabilitation often requires multiple sessions, the clinic can provide these services on an outpatient basis depending on the patient's condition. For those traveling to Istanbul, the medical team develops a structured plan to follow during their stay.

You can request a consultation and a personalized rehabilitation plan through Bookimed.