Thanks to the application of innovative therapeutic methods, the treatment of lung emphysema in Israel ensures consistently successful results. Modern technologies are one of the key factors, an essential tool in the hands of the physician. They play a crucial role in the entire process, helping the doctor achieve maximum results, increasing accuracy, and reducing the risk of errors.
To ensure patient safety and provide the physician with the best equipment for medical procedures, the operating and diagnostic departments at Ichilov are equipped with the most modern technological means. Patient reviews of treatment at the clinic can be viewed or read in the relevant section of the website. In them, medical tourists emphasize the exceptional professionalism of the doctors, the caring attitude of the staff, and the comprehensive assistance from the clinic's international department staff.
About the Disease
Emphysema is a chronic lung disease in which the air sacs (alveoli) can be collapsed, destroyed, narrowed, or stretched. Excessive inflation of the air sacs occurs due to the destruction of the alveolar walls, leading to decreased respiratory function and shortness of breath. Lung emphysema is part of a group of lung diseases called COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
The main causes of the disease are smoking, exposure to polluted air, chemical vapors, dust, and other substances, as well as a rare hereditary form of the disease associated with alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency.
Treatment Methods for Lung Emphysema
The goal of emphysema therapy is to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and slow the progression of the disease.
Medication Treatment
- Bronchodilators. When inhaled as aerosol canisters or taken orally, bronchodilators help relieve emphysema symptoms by relaxing and opening the airways in the lungs.
- Steroids. When inhaled as an aerosol spray, steroids help alleviate emphysema symptoms associated with asthma and bronchitis.
- Antibiotics. Antibiotics are used to combat respiratory infections commonly seen in people with emphysema, such as acute bronchitis, pneumonia, and influenza.
Oxygen Therapy
As the disease progresses, patients may find it increasingly difficult to breathe independently and may require supplemental oxygen.
Protein Therapy
Patients with emphysema caused by alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency may receive AAT infusions to slow the progression of lung damage.
Lung Rehabilitation
An important part of emphysema treatment is lung rehabilitation, which includes education, nutritional counseling, learning special breathing techniques, and physical exercises.
Surgery
Depending on the severity of emphysema, the treating physician may suggest one or several different types of surgery, including:
- Lung volume reduction surgery. In this procedure, surgeons remove small wedges of damaged lung tissue. Removing the affected tissue helps the remaining lung tissue expand and function more effectively, as well as improves breathing.
- Lung transplantation. Lung transplantation is an option if the patient has severe lung damage and other options have not helped.
How Diagnosis is Conducted at Ichilov Clinic
The diagnostic process at Ichilov Clinic typically takes three days and consists of three key stages, including a medical consultation, laboratory and instrumental studies, and a medical council.
Upon arrival at the clinic, the patient attends the first consultation. To confirm or rule out a diagnosis of emphysema, the treating physician will begin with a thorough medical examination, taking a medical history, and determining any symptoms the patient is experiencing.
On the second day, tests are conducted. The doctor may order the following types of procedures:
- Lung function testing. This test involves a series of breathing sessions that measure airflow and the volume of air in the lungs. This allows your doctor to objectively assess your lung function.
- High-resolution computed tomography. This is a special type of computed tomography that allows the doctor to obtain high-resolution images of your lungs.
- Chest X-ray. A chest X-ray can help confirm a diagnosis of emphysema and rule out other lung diseases.
- Arterial blood gas analysis. These blood tests determine how well the lungs transfer oxygen into the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide.
- Sputum examination. Analyzing sputum cells can help determine the cause of some lung problems.
Once the examination results are ready, a medical council is held. The doctors who will subsequently treat the patient collectively review the clinical case to choose the optimal therapy scheme. The patient may attend this meeting and receive information about the advantages of the chosen methods and the associated risks.
- Computed Tomography
- Chest X-ray
How Much Does Treatment for Lung Emphysema Cost
The cost of treatment is calculated individually, as the therapeutic process can vary significantly from case to case based on the set of necessary procedures. The price is formed taking into account the severity of the disease, the presence of comorbidities requiring additional measures, and the overall condition of the patient. The exact price is announced after the examination is completed at the clinic. However, a preliminary cost can be obtained upon request by filling out the feedback form or calling the specified phone number.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- The highest level of medicine, which is valued worldwide.
- The professionalism of doctors, unique treatment methods, and modern medical centers with state-of-the-art equipment.
- The opportunity to use the services of a personal case manager who coordinates the treatment process and facilitates communication with the staff.
- No language barrier between the patient and the service staff.
- Flexible pricing policy, no advance payments, and the ability to pay for services in any convenient form.
If you or your loved ones have signs of the disease, consult a doctor. Timely medical assistance significantly improves the prognosis. To schedule a consultation with an Israeli specialist, please enter your contact details in any of the feedback forms.