Radiosurgery – Non-Invasive Brain Surgery in Israel

Using 3D imaging, radiosurgery administers high doses of radiation to the affected tissues, targeting them precisely to minimize damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. Each individual radiation beam has almost no effect on the tissues it passes through, but at the point where all the beams intersect – a high dose of radiation is delivered.

Radiosurgery (similar to other forms of radiotherapy) works by damaging the cell’s DNA. Consequently, the targeted cells can no longer reproduce, and they shrink instead. Over time, blood vessels that nourish the tumor also close off, depriving the tumor of its blood supply.

On the day of treatment, the patient undergoes imaging tests (CT, MRI) to scan the head or spine. The resulting images provide essential information that enables Sheba’s doctors to define the exact parameters of the cancerous tissue that needs to be destroyed. The patient then lies on a robotic table that pivots according to the predetermined computer settings, and we use a Novalis accelerator to deliver the targeted ionizing radiation.

Radiosurgery of the brain and spine is usually performed in a single, painless session that takes about half an hour. Following this non-invasive brain surgery in Israel, the patient is released home and can return to normal daily activities immediately.

At Sheba, focused ultrasound (FUS) is another advanced therapy provided by the Radiosurgery Unit. While FUS is FDA-approved, it is still only available at a few facilities in the US.

FUS, a non-invasive treatment for essential tremor, does not require electrodes or any surgery, thereby eliminating any risk of infection. Focused ultrasound waves travel through the skull and skin to precisely destroy the desired area of the brain. The waves create heat to ablate brain tissue in a very specific area. The targeted delivery of FUS is guided by MRI, a radiation-free imaging technique that enhances patient safety.

There is no age limit for candidacy for FUS therapy; Sheba’s doctors evaluate each case individually. Possible side effects include trouble with walking, altered sensation, or difficulty moving. However, most of these complications are mild and short-term.

Sheba’s medical staff comprises highly qualified specialists, such as radiation physicists, oncologists, and neurosurgeons who work together to personalize and optimize each patient’s treatment. To make the most of our doctors’ premier skills, we equip our campus with top-of-the-line and minimally invasive technologies for neurosurgery, including advanced stereotactic instrumentation, new computer technology, microelectrode recording equipment, high-field MRI, and focused ultrasound (FUS).

• To date, Sheba’s Radiosurgery Unit has treated more than 5,000 patients since it was founded in 1992 – making our team one of the most experienced in the region.
• Yearly, we care for about 230 adult and pediatric patients with benign and malignant cranial tumors, as well as patients with vascular malformations of the brain.
• We have performed over 400 stereotactic radiosurgery procedures for Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders.