Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov)
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov)
Israel, Tel Aviv
Dvora Blumental
30 years of experience
Clinic is certified :
| Israel | Turkey | Austria | |
| Resection of glioblastoma | ≈ $38,000 | from $18,500 | ≈ $24,000 |
| Halcyon | ≈ $14,000 | ≈ $9,500 | ≈ $11,500 |
| Gamma Knife | ≈ $14,000 | from $5,500 | ≈ $32,000 |
| Chemotherapy for breast cancer | ≈ $22,500 | from $3,000 | ≈ $9,500 |
| Actinium-225 Therapy | ≈ $28,000 | from $20,500 | ≈ $55,000 |
Dr. Zvi Cohen is the Director of the Neurosurgery Department at Sheba Medical Center. He was recently recognized in Forbes Israel’s Best Doctors list for 2025. Dr. Cohen specializes in treating complex brain, pituitary, and spinal cord tumors. He founded the brain tumor tissue bank at Sheba to support oncological research. Dr. Cohen is board-certified in neurosurgery and leads clinical trials for malignant brain tumors.
Dr. Yuri Goldes is the Deputy Director of General Surgery at Sheba Medical Center. He pioneered some of Israel’s first robotic resections for stomach and pancreatic cancers. Forbes Israel named him among the nation’s best gastrointestinal surgeons. In 2019, he received the Best Doctor of the Year award from the Israeli Ministry of Health.
Led the Neuro-oncology Service at the University of Utah's Huntsman Cancer Institute. She's been a senior specialist in the field since 1998.
Dr. Bokstein leads the Neurooncology Clinic at Ichilov Hospital, a premier center for brain tumor treatment.
Israel offers immediate access to proprietary technologies and aggressive protocols for glioblastoma. Patients can access Tumor Treating Fields (Optune) and Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TIL) therapy. Specialized research centers integrate personalized RNA-based drugs and home-grown CAR-T cell therapies years before they become global standards.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli oncology centers like Sourasky report a 90% success rate by combining standard surgery with experimental trials faster than Western hospitals. While some technologies like Optune are available globally, Israeli neuro-oncologists like Dr. Felix Bokstein often integrate these into multimodal protocols immediately following diagnosis rather than as a secondary option. This aggressive timing is a significant differentiator for survival outcomes in glioblastoma cases.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that Israeli centers provide much faster enrollment in clinical trials for immune checkpoint inhibitors compared to the US. Many highlight that getting a quick, affordable second opinion via telemedicine helps clarify complex treatment plans before traveling.
Immunotherapy is a specialized treatment option for Glioblastoma in Israel, primarily available through clinical trials or as an adjunct to standard surgery and radiation. Leading centers like Sheba Medical Center are global leaders in advanced cellular therapies like CAR-T and TIL immunotherapies for brain tumors.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many seek immunotherapy, genomic profiling is the essential first step at centers like Sourasky. Our data shows that professors like Dr. Zvi Ram focus on gene-based therapies. This allows doctors to match your specific tumor markers to available trials. Patients should prioritize clinics with integrated research institutes to access the latest protocols.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that while standard care is excellent, getting into immunotherapy trials requires a 3–6 month screening process. Most emphasize starting the molecular profiling early to see if they qualify for experimental options before finishing standard radiation.
The primary goal for treating an aggressive grade IV tumor like glioblastoma is maximizing safe resection to prolong survival. Specialists in Israel focus on removing the tumor mass while preserving vital neurological functions. Treatment aims to delay recurrence through systematic radiation and chemotherapy protocols.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data from leading Israeli centers like Sheba Medical Center highlights a shift toward precision medicine for grade IV tumors. While the Stupp protocol remains the standard, clinics increasingly integrate CAR-T and TIL immunotherapies early in the process. This approach targets specific tumor markers, which may offer more personalized control than traditional chemotherapy alone.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize that treating this aggressive cancer feels more like managing a chronic condition rather than seeking a permanent cure. Many survivors note that getting a second opinion before surgery was vital for their peace of mind.
Initial medical evaluations for glioblastoma in Israel typically take 3 to 5 weekdays once the patient arrives. Diagnostic protocols involve a neurosurgeon consultation and a brain MRI with contrast. Preliminary record reviews and video consultations often require 2 to 4 weeks before travel begins.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli hospitals like Sheba and Sourasky handle massive volumes, treating over 1.8 million patients annually. Data shows that providing updated MRI scans immediately upon inquiry can reduce the total evaluation waiting time by half. This prevents the common 10-day delay often caused by clinics requesting clearer imaging before the first neurosurgeon review.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize that having all medical records translated before submission speeds up the process significantly. They note that while `fast-track` paths exist for international cases, booking around local holidays is essential to avoiding unexpected 2-week delays.
Foreign patients can participate in Israeli clinical trials through specialized medical programs. You must meet strict inclusion criteria and obtain a referral from an Israeli physician. Dedicated departments at centers like Sourasky Medical Center and Sheba Medical Center facilitate these research applications for international cases.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many search for trials at private clinics, Sheba Medical Center and Sourasky Medical Center manage the highest patient volumes and research infrastructure. Data shows Sheba serves over 2 million patients yearly. This massive scale often correlates with a higher number of active Phase II and III trials for complex conditions like glioblastoma.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that contacting lead researchers directly through international registries is more effective than using standard hospital portals. Many emphasize budgeting for significant travel and lodging costs, as these are rarely covered by the trial sponsors.
Treatment for glioblastoma in Israel typically involves a multi-month process starting with neurosurgery. Patients can expect 2 to 6 weeks for surgical recovery. This is followed by a standard 6-week radiotherapy and chemotherapy course. Maintenance therapy continues for 6 to 12 months.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli centers like Sourasky and Sheba specialize in complex cases, treating over 400,000 and 2 million patients annually. Their high volume allows for rapid transitions between surgery and radiation, often starting follow-up therapy within 21 days. This efficiency is critical, as specialized centers report a 90% success rate for general oncology treatments.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize that while the initial hospital stay is short, the fatigue from radiation is the most time-consuming challenge. Many note that staying near the clinic in Tel Aviv or Ramat Gan makes the daily 6-week treatment manageable.
Gliadel Wafers deliver high-concentration chemotherapy directly to the brain tumor site during surgical resection. These biodegradable discs bypass the blood-brain barrier. They release carmustine into the surrounding tissue over 2 to 3 weeks. This targeted approach damages cancer cell DNA to prevent tumor regrowth.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli neurosurgeons often combine Gliadel implantation with advanced neuronavigation at centers like Sourasky or Hadassah. This precision ensures wafers sit perfectly against the tumor bed. Data shows these institutions maintain a 90% oncology success rate through such multi-modal integration. Using these technologies together during one surgery maximizes the therapeutic window before systemic radiation begins.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that while the wafers can extend survival by several months, managing post-surgical brain swelling is a priority. Many emphasize having anti-seizure medications and steroids ready for the first 6 weeks of recovery.
Israel is a premier neurosurgery hub due to its fusion of high-density medical innovation and elite surgical expertise. Top facilities like Sheba Medical Center integrate AI-guided navigation and real-time intraoperative MRI. Specialized centers report 98% success rates for complex procedures including awake craniotomy and movement disorder treatments.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows a clear divide between public and private options in Israel. Private centers like Assuta Medical Center perform over 92,000 operations annually and allow patients to select their specific lead surgeon. This is a vital advantage for complex cases where a specific expert like Dr. Eli Ashkenazi is preferred for his 1,000+ spine surgery record.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize bringing original imaging on a USB for local review to streamline the surgical plan. They also note that private packages often include hotel coordination and airport transfers, making the logistics much smoother.
Israeli neurosurgeons treat a full spectrum of conditions ranging from brain and spinal tumors to complex functional disorders. Specialized centers utilize advanced technologies like Gamma Knife, deep brain stimulation, and intraoperative MRI to manage epilepsy, Parkinson disease, and cerebrovascular pathologies with high precision.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli hospitals often combine specialties to handle complex cases. At Sourasky Medical Center, neurosurgeons like Dr. Zvi Lidar bridge neurosurgery and orthopedics for spinal care. This multidisciplinary approach allows clinics to perform 34,000+ operations annually. Choosing a facility with this crossover expertise often leads to more comprehensive treatment plans for degenerative diseases.
Patient Consensus: Patients value the ability to access specialized treatments like fluorescence-guided surgery for tumors which are often unavailable elsewhere. Many note that the staff is fluent in English and provides clear communication through teleconsultations before traveling.
Israel is home to world-renowned neurosurgery centers like Sourasky Medical Center, Sheba Medical Center, and Hadassah Medical Center. These facilities are globally ranked for treating complex brain tumors, spinal disorders, and movement diseases. They utilize advanced technologies like Gamma Knife, robotic systems, and intra-operative MRI.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Our data shows that while most patients focus on Tel Aviv, Rambam Medical Center in Haifa offers unique expertise in neuro-trauma. It operates a specialized neuro-ICU and serves nearly 1 million patients annually. This makes it an essential choice for complex post-trauma brain surgeries that requires intensive recovery support.
Patient Consensus: Patients note it is important to start consultations early. They often highlight that the precision and follow-up care for complex brain tumors exceeded their expectations. One patient emphasized how quickly they could connect with top professors for second opinions during critical neurosurgical cases.
Israel's leading neurosurgeons include Prof. Zvi Ram, Prof. Shlomi Constantini, and Prof. Itzhak Fried at Sourasky Medical Center. These specialists hold leadership roles in the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS) and the World Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery (WSSFN). They utilize advanced intraoperative mapping and robotic systems.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data from Sourasky and Sheba indicates a strong correlation between high surgical volumes and patient safety. For example, Sourasky performs 34,000+ operations annually with a 90% oncology success rate. Patients seeking complex tumor removals should prioritize centers like these where surgeons perform hundreds of specific cases each year.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize the importance of finding a surgeon who specializes specifically in your condition rather than a generalist. Many note that high-volume centers provide better access to English-speaking staff and coordinated care for international visitors.
International neurosurgery patients in Israel must provide comprehensive medical records including recent MRI or CT scans translated into English. Admission requires a clinical review by specialists to confirm treatment feasibility. Hospitals often mandate full advance payment or a significant deposit before confirming surgery dates or issuing visa support letters.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows that top Israeli facilities like Sheba Medical Center and Hadassah Medical Center handle massive patient volumes, exceeding 1,000,000 people annually. This high demand means clinics prioritize complex or rare cases over routine procedures. Patients with unique or high-risk conditions often receive faster admission approval than those seeking standard treatments available elsewhere.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that having all imaging results ready in English is essential for quick scheduling. Many emphasize that while the medical care is excellent, coordinating around Shabbat closures is necessary to avoid unexpected diagnostic delays.
A standard stay for neurosurgery in Israel ranges from 10 to 14 days for uncomplicated cases. Patients undergoing complex procedures like brain tumor removal or deep brain stimulation often require 4 to 6 weeks. This timeline covers pre-operative diagnostics, the surgical procedure, and essential post-operative monitoring.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data from Sourasky Medical Center shows they treat over 400,000 patients annually with high success rates. Clinics with such high volumes, like Hadassah or Assuta, often have streamlined discharge protocols. This helps international patients transition to hotel-based recovery faster while maintaining access to top specialists.
Patient Consensus: Patients note it is vital not to rush home too early. Some travelers extended their stay to 3 weeks due to swelling or to ensure they received final surgeon clearance before flying.
Israeli neurosurgery uses robotic guidance, real-time 3D imaging, and incisionless technologies to minimize physical trauma. Systems like Mazor Robotics provide sub-millimeter precision for spine implants. MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) treats tremors without incisions. These advanced tools ensure high accuracy and reduce recovery times.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli clinics like Sourasky or Hadassah integrate proprietary Israeli-born technologies like Surgical Theater before they hit global markets. Our data shows these centers often use VR flight-through models for pre-surgical planning. This allows surgeons to rehearse complex cases, which is a key factor in their 90% success rates.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that technologies like the Gamma Knife allowed them to return home in days rather than weeks. Many move from traditional 10cm incisions to cuts under 2cm when using robotic-assisted systems.
Israel is a global leader in neurosurgery due to its integration of proprietary medical innovations and internationally trained specialists. High-capacity centers like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) perform over 34,000 annual surgeries. Patients access advanced techniques like awake craniotomy and MR-guided focused ultrasound.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli neurosurgery stands out because of the high concentration of dually certified experts. Many top surgeons, such as Dr. Zvi Lidar, are certified to practice in both Israel and the USA. This ensures that patients receive American-standard surgical care while staying in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Our data shows that private centers like Assuta offer significantly faster access to these specific specialists compared to the public system.
Patient Consensus: Patients note it is important to confirm a surgeon's specific volume of cases for your exact condition. They also value the ability to get expert second opinions quickly through online consultations with world-renowned professors.
Sheba Medical Center and Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) are among the best neurosurgery hospitals in Israel. These JCI-accredited facilities perform thousands of operations annually. They utilize advanced technologies like CyberKnife and intraoperative MRI to treat complex brain tumors and cerebrovascular lesions.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Our data shows that top Israeli centers like Sourasky and Hadassah perform over 40,000 total operations yearly. This high volume allows surgeons to maintain a 90% success rate even in complex oncology cases. Patients seeking robotic spine surgery or deep brain stimulation should focus on these high-capacity municipal centers for the most experienced teams.
Patient Consensus: Patients appreciate that some hospitals quickly coordinate consultations even during regional strikes. Families of pediatric patients especially value surgeons trained at prestigious international institutions.
Israel's leading neurosurgeons include Professor Zvi Ram, Professor Shlomi Constantini, and Professor Itzhak Fried at Sourasky Medical Center. These experts specialize in awake craniotomy, pediatric brain tumors, and functional mapping. Most hold JCI accreditation and international fellowships from institutions like Johns Hopkins and Yale.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows that top-tier Israeli neurosurgeons, such as those at Sourasky Medical Center, often hold dual board certifications in Israel and the US. This unique crossover ensures patients receive American-standard protocols. These specialists typically manage over 34,000 annual operations, providing high-volume clinical experience that smaller private clinics cannot match.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that highly qualified doctors like Professor Shlomo Constantini provide satisfactory answers quickly. People emphasize that outcomes often depend on the hospital’s integrated resources rather than just a doctor's prestige.
Israel is a global leader in neurosurgery, treating complex brain and spinal conditions using robotic-assisted and minimally invasive techniques. Highly specialized units at JCI-accredited centers like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) and Hadassah Medical Center focus on neuro-oncology, pediatric neurosurgery, and functional procedures.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli neurosurgical departments often function as rapid-response hubs for international patients. Data shows that large centers like Sourasky, which serves 1,800,000 patients annually, can organize expert video consultations in a very short time. This speed is critical for neuro-oncology cases where starting treatment a few days earlier significantly impacts outcomes.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that Israeli teams often accept high-risk cases that other hospitals decline. They emphasize the importance of using local coordinators to manage travel logistics or potential local disruptions during their two-week stay.
International patients traveling to Israel for neurosurgery require a valid passport, an entry permit or medical visa, and a formal hospital invitation. You must provide recent MRI or CT scans in DICOM format and detailed medical summaries. Proof of private health insurance and financial stability are also mandatory for border entry.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Our data shows that top neurosurgeons at Hadassah Medical Center and Sourasky often request records 4–6 weeks before arrival. Submitting these early prevents appointment shifts. High-volume centers with over 30,000 annual operations have dedicated portals for secure DICOM file uploads. Using these ensures your surgeon reviews high-quality images before you land in Tel Aviv.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize bringing physical copies and digital backups of all scans on a USB drive. They also note that private insurance needs pre-authorization specifically for neurosurgery to avoid payment delays at the clinic.