Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov)
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov)
Israel, Tel Aviv
Ofer Merimsky
41 years of experience
accreditations :
Clinic is certified :
| Israel | Turkey | Austria | |
| Nasal polyp surgery | ≈ $5,500 | from $2,300 | ≈ $3,600 |
| Endoscopic Sinus Surgery | ≈ $5,500 | from $6,000 | ≈ $4,800 |
Ranked among Israel's best ENT doctors by Forbes in 2021. He leads the hearing impairment department at Sourasky Medical Center – one of Israel's top hospitals.
Dr. Derowe leads the Pediatric Otolaryngology Unit at Ichilov Hospital, specializing in children's ENT conditions like nasal polyps. He trained as an instructor at Stanford School of Medicine, a world-renowned institution.
Dr. Hendzel specializes in complex otology and neurobiology surgeries, including cochlear implantation, with training from Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Ofer Merimsky heads the National Center for bone and soft tissue sarcomas at Sourasky Medical Center. He is a primary specialist in Israel for lung cancer and sarcoma treatment. Dr. Merimsky serves as Deputy Director of the Oncology Institute. He also specializes in complex Whipple surgery for pancreatic cancer cases. He works at JCI-accredited Sourasky Medical Center, ranked among the world's best hospitals by Newsweek.
Standard treatment for nasal polyps in Israel includes specialized medical management and advanced surgical interventions. Patients typically undergo corticosteroid therapy or biologic injections like Dupixent. If non-invasive methods fail, surgeons perform functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) to clear passages within JCI-accredited facilities.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli ENT departments at centers like Sourasky Medical Center integrate diagnostic procedures such as transsphenoidal methods into their surgical repertoire. While surgery packages may cost approximately $5,500 to $8,800, the high expertise of surgeons like Dr. Avraam Abergel, who is ranked among the best by Forbes, ensures a focus on long-term respiratory health rather than just temporary symptom relief.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that seeking allergy testing before surgery is a common practice in Israel. Many emphasize that daily saline rinses are essential post-op to prevent the polyps from returning.
A typical medical stay in Israel for endoscopic sinus surgery requires 4 to 7 days in the country. Most procedures are outpatient with same-day discharge after 4 to 6 hours of observation. Surgeons generally schedule the first critical follow-up within 3 to 7 days post-operation.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many expect a long hospital stay, major Israeli centers like Sourasky Medical Center manage high volumes of over 34,000 operations annually through efficient outpatient protocols. Our data shows that top specialists like Dr. Avraam Abergel, ranked by Forbes, often utilize virtual consultations for long-term monitoring. This allows international patients to return home sooner while maintaining specialized oversight for 3 to 6 months.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that the total time in the facility is often only 6 hours. They suggest booking a hotel for at least one night near the clinic to manage post-surgical fatigue or nausea before the first follow-up visit.
Most patients recover from endoscopic nasal polyp surgery within 14 days. Full internal healing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks in JCI-accredited Israeli centers. Early recovery involves managing congestion and saline rinses. Most people return to office work within 7 to 10 days.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli specialists like Dr. Avraam Abergel often combine polyp removal with lacrimal duct or sinus procedures. Our data shows that top centers like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) perform over 34,000 operations annually. This high volume means surgeons are highly efficient at minimizing tissue trauma during complex endoscopic cases. Choosing a high-volume facility can lead to more predictable healing timelines.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that clearing nasal packing after the first week brings immediate relief. Many emphasize that sticking strictly to daily saline rinses is vital for clearing crusts and regaining their sense of smell.
Nasal polyps recur in approximately 35% to 40% of patients within 18 months post-surgery. Long-term recurrence rates can reach 76% over 12 years. Management involves chronic inflammation control through steroid sprays, saline irrigation, biologic injections, or specialized revision endoscopic sinus surgery.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli ENT departments prioritize surgical longevity by involving senior specialists with multidisciplinary training. For example, Dr. Avraam Abergel at Sourasky Medical Center leads a dedicated nose and sinus department. This focus on sub-specialization ensures that complex revision cases are handled by surgeons who specifically manage high-risk recurrence factors like asthma or aspirin sensitivity.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that regrowth often happens within 1 to 3 years if daily maintenance is skipped. Many emphasize that while surgery clears the airway, sticking to lifelong steroid rinses is the only way to prevent a quick relapse.
Top Israeli hospitals for nasal polyp surgery include Sourasky Medical Center and Sheba Medical Center. These JCI-accredited institutions utilize functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and image-guided technology. Expert surgeons like Dr. Avraam Abergel and Dr. Ophir Hendzel provide advanced care within these multidisciplinary departments.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli ENT departments provide a unique advantage by combining surgical polyp removal with immunology. Data shows clinics like Sourasky and Sheba integrate biologics and innovative research directly into patient care. This comprehensive approach is particularly effective for complex cases linked to chronic rhinosinusitis.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that Israeli clinics excel in revision surgeries for failed procedures done elsewhere. Many emphasize the importance of confirming if biologics are an option during an initial video consultation.
Modern sinus surgery for nasal polyps in Israel leaves no visible scars or external cuts. Surgeons perform Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) entirely through the nostrils. This minimally invasive approach uses thin endoscopes and cameras. Visual changes to the face or skin are typically non-existent.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While top facilities like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) perform over 34,000 annual operations, patients should verify their surgeon's specific sub-specialization. Doctors like Dr. Avraam Abergel, ranked among the best by Forbes, specifically list both endoscopic sinus surgery and tumor removal. This dual expertise ensures that even complex polyp cases are handled with internal, scar-free techniques rather than traditional open methods.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that while the face looks normal immediately, it is helpful to use ice packs for temporary internal puffiness. Many emphasize confirming a purely endoscopic plan with the surgeon to ensure no external changes occur.
Tel Aviv and Petah Tikva are the premier clusters for nasal polyp treatment in Israel. These cities house JCI-accredited facilities like Sourasky Medical Center and Schneider Children’s Medical Center. They specialize in endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and advanced biologics. International departments provide English-speaking coordinators for seamless care.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Clinical volume is a major quality indicator in Israel. Sourasky Medical Center treats over 400,000 patients annually and performs 34,000 operations. Our data shows that top-tier surgeons like Dr. Derowe Ari, who has over 30 years of experience, often practice across both public and private sectors. Choosing a Tel Aviv-based specialist ensures access to these high-volume experts who manage the most complex nasal cases.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that Tel Aviv is the most convenient hub due to English-speaking staff and dedicated sinus clinics at centers like Ichilov. It is highly recommended to engage international departments early to match with a polyp-specific surgeon and avoid logistical surprises.
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.