Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov)
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov)
Israel, Tel Aviv
Strauss Ido
27 years of experience
Clinic is certified :
Parkinson's disease treatment cost in Israel ranges from $3,500 for a diagnostic assessment, while surgical options like deep brain stimulation run from $19,000. Total expenses depend on the clinical stage, the complexity of neuromodulation required, and whether you choose a private or public facility. International patients typically save 20-30% compared to US medical costs. Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa are the primary hubs for these specialized treatments.
Typical Parkinson's Disease Treatment Costs in Israel
Bookimed Expert Insight: Patients seeking innovative care should prioritize clinics with robotic capabilities. Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) was first to implement AI and robotic surgery in Israel. For advanced cases, Hadassah Medical Center offers specialized expertise in functional neurosurgery and stem cell research. Private options like Assuta Medical Center provide faster access and surgeon choice for DBS. Rambam Medical Center is ideal for those seeking non-invasive tremor control through focused ultrasound.
| Israel | Turkey | Austria | |
| Medication treatment for Parkinson's disease | ≈ $1,400 | from $100 | ≈ $2,200 |
| Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS) | ≈ $9,000 | from $15,800 | ≈ $16,000 |
| Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Therapy | ≈ $18,000 | ≈ $6,500 | ≈ $14,000 |
| Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery | from $19,000 | from $22,100 | ≈ $38,000 |
| Stem cell therapy for Parkinson's disease | ≈ $18,000 | from $12,000 | ≈ $35,000 |
Dr. Strauss Ido is a neurosurgeon at Sourasky Medical Center in Tel Aviv. He serves as a Board Director for the World Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery. Dr. Ido specializes in treating Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease.
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.
Professor Tatyana Gurevich heads Israel's only Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence and leads an interdisciplinary team at Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center.
A globally recognized neurosurgeon and neuroscientist, Professor Fried's innovative work at UCLA, Yale, and Ichilov Hospital pushes the boundaries of neurological treatment.
Written by Kateryna Zamkovska
Written by Veronika Kazina
Israel offers MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) as the primary non-invasive treatment for Parkinson's disease symptoms. This incisionless procedure uses high-intensity sound waves to thermally ablate brain tissue responsible for tremors. Patients remain awake during the session and typically return home the same day.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While MRgFUS is highly effective for tremor-dominant cases, patients seeking comprehensive care should look for centers with high multidisciplinary volume. Sourasky Medical Center alone treats over 400,000 patients annually and hosts specialized teams led by experts like Dr. Tatyana Gurevich. This high patient turnover often correlates with faster access to emerging clinical trials for photobiomodulation and advanced magnetic stimulation.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that daily magnetic stimulation sessions significantly help with walking, even when surgery is not an option. Many emphasize that while tremor relief is the main goal, light therapy trials offer unexpected improvements in sleep and mood.
Deep brain stimulation is a standard, highly established procedure in Israel for treating Parkinson's disease. Major medical centers in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa perform this surgery using advanced neurostimulators. Israeli neurosurgeons report efficacy rates of up to 80% for managing complex movement disorder symptoms.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many believe top-tier neurosurgery is only found in the US, our data shows Israeli centers like Sourasky Medical Center are globally competitive. Sourasky is a Newsweek-ranked top 10 hospital for medical tourists. A complete Deep Brain Stimulation package there costs approximately $58,300. This includes specialized neurosurgery by Dr. Strauss Ido and essential pre-operative diagnostics. This price is significantly lower than average US costs for the same technology.
Patient Consensus: Patients often note that Israeli surgeons have excellent Western training and provide high-precision care. Many emphasize the importance of private consultations to speed up the scheduling process for advanced cases.
Israel offers advanced drug delivery for Parkinson's through JCI-accredited centers like Sourasky Medical Center. Patients access continuous subcutaneous infusion pumps and MRI-guided focused ultrasound to manage motor fluctuations. These methods bypass oral digestion to provide stable dopamine levels and eliminate off periods.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many overlook hospital volume, Sourasky Medical Center treats 1,800,000 patients annually and maintains a top-10 global ranking. Our data shows that high-volume centers provide faster access to specialized surgeons like Dr. Strauss Ido. Deep brain stimulation packages in these centers often cover all-inclusive costs around $58,300, including pre-op tests and 5-star accommodations.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that subcutaneous pumps significantly reduce freezing episodes by nearly 40% within weeks. Many emphasize seeking second opinions from movement disorder specialists to navigate insurance coverage hurdles for newer delivery methods.
Patients choose Israel for Parkinson's treatment due to its leadership in MRI-guided focused ultrasound and deep brain stimulation. Expert neurologists in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem utilize advanced genetic research and stem cell therapies. JCI-accredited centers offer these specialized neurological interventions with shorter waiting times than US facilities.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows that Israeli neurosurgeons, such as Dr. Strauss Ido at Sourasky Medical Center, often emphasize personalized programming for deep brain stimulation. While some global centers use a set-and-forget approach, Israeli protocols prioritize iterative adjustments over several days. This intensive fine-tuning, available in packages around $58,300, significantly improves motor symptom management compared to standard one-time settings.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that Israeli doctors provide more hands-on follow-up for complex device settings. Many highlight that the ability to access experimental trials for alpha-synuclein inhibitors within weeks is a major advantage.
Patients in Israel can monitor Parkinson's symptoms from home using advanced wearables and smartphone diagnostic tools. These technologies track motor fluctuations, gait, and tremors in real-time. Clinicians at centers like Sourasky Medical Center and Sheba Medical Center use this remote data to optimize medication and deep brain stimulation settings.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli neurology departments excel at integrating remote data into surgical aftercare. For example, at Sourasky Medical Center, where Dr. Strauss Ido performs deep brain stimulation, remote monitoring helps specialists fine-tune neurostimulator settings more accurately. Patients often choose these high-volume centers because the doctors, many with 30+ years of experience, use digital data to reduce the number of required physical follow-up appointments.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that uploading tremor videos and sensor data via apps saves significant travel time in busy areas like Tel Aviv. While continuous tracking is helpful, some recommend focusing on just one or two metrics to avoid feeling overwhelmed by constant monitoring.
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.