Among all types of kidney cancers, renal cell carcinoma, or adenocarcinoma, is diagnosed most frequently. The development of the disease is caused by smoking, chronic kidney pathologies, and renal failure associated with prolonged hemodialysis. Treatment of renal cell carcinoma in Israel is conducted by highly qualified oncologists who are among the leading specialists in this field of medicine. The comprehensive treatment program includes innovative methods such as minimally invasive surgeries, radiofrequency and ultrasound ablation, gentle radiation, and targeted therapy. These therapeutic approaches allow for the elimination of the tumor, alleviation of painful symptoms, and achievement of sustained remission.
Since characteristic symptoms typically do not manifest in the early stages of the disease, patients seek medical help only at an advanced stage of the oncological pathology. With the latest equipment available in Israeli clinics, it is possible to accurately diagnose tumors of the smallest size, describe their characteristics necessary for developing an effective treatment plan. Comprehensive therapy conducted at early stages improves prognosis and normalizes the patient's condition in more than 95% of cases. An attractive factor contributing to Israel's popularity in the field of medical tourism is the affordable treatment costs for foreign patients.
Treatment Methods for the Disease
The choice of therapeutic methods is largely influenced by the location, size, histotype, and stage of tumor development, as well as the degree of aggressiveness and spread of the pathological process.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical removal of renal cell carcinoma remains the most effective treatment method. Israeli surgeons prefer minimally invasive interventions that do not require large incisions and do not lead to bleeding or other complications. After such operations, patients experience a very easy recovery period that lasts literally a few days. The laparoscope's camera captures images of the surgical field, which are transmitted to a monitor where the operating surgeon can see them, thus maintaining visual control of the procedure.
If it is necessary to remove a large tumor identified at an advanced stage of the disease, and the patient exhibits pronounced symptoms, doctors are forced to completely remove the affected kidney. Nephrectomy involves the removal of the kidney and a fragment of surrounding tissues, significantly increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Radiotherapy
Radiation therapy is one of the main traditional methods of anti-tumor therapy. There are two types of radiotherapy: neoadjuvant (preoperative) and adjuvant (postoperative). Neoadjuvant radiation aims to reduce the size of the renal cell carcinoma, facilitating its subsequent removal. Adjuvant radiotherapy sessions are conducted to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery. In Israel, radiation therapy is performed using the latest equipment and gentle techniques that allow for targeted effects on the tumor, with varying radiation intensity across different areas. This minimizes damage to healthy tissues, preventing significant side effects in patients.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is most often used in combination with other treatment methods. However, in cases where surgical removal of the tumor is impossible or at an advanced stage of the pathology, chemotherapy is considered a standalone treatment option. In Israeli clinics, chemotherapy courses are conducted using modern chemotherapeutic agents that have low toxicity and exhibit gentle effects. Patient feedback indicates that these drugs are indeed very effective and do not cause side effects.
Targeted Therapy
This progressive method achieves positive results even when other treatment methods are ineffective. The protection of healthy tissues and patient safety is ensured because targeted drugs have a destructive effect only on pathological cells. Studies show that targeted therapy can make treatment 45% more effective.
Cryotherapy
This method is based on destroying tumor tissues through freezing, which occurs under the influence of liquid nitrogen. The coolant is delivered to the tumor using a cryoprobe, without damaging healthy tissues. This effective procedure can be repeated if necessary.
Radiofrequency Ablation
This minimally invasive procedure is based on destroying the tumor through the application of high-frequency electric current. The current is delivered to the area of the neoplasm using electrodes, heating the tumor tissues to a temperature that causes their death and necrosis.
HIFU Therapy
HIFU therapy (high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation) involves targeting the tumor with high-frequency ultrasound waves. This results in a sharp increase in local temperature, leading to the death of cancer cells. Since ultrasound does not harm healthy tissues as it passes through them, patients do not experience side effects.
Embolization of Arteries
This procedure aims to block the arterial vessels supplying blood to the neoplasm by introducing micro-particles — emboli. The emboli are made from a special material that does not harm the patient's body.
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How the Disease is Diagnosed
A comprehensive diagnostic examination in Israeli clinics takes about three days.
Upon arriving at the clinic, the patient is directed to an appointment with the treating oncologist. During the consultation, the specialist reviews the medical history and examines the results of tests conducted in the patient's home country. If biopsy materials (paraffin blocks, slides) are available, the doctor sends them to the laboratory for analysis. After a physical examination, the specialist compiles a list of necessary additional tests.
The next day, the patient undergoes the prescribed examinations:
- general and biochemical blood and urine tests;
- determination of specific tumor markers in the blood;
- ultrasound examination of the kidneys;
- visual imaging methods (CT, MRI, PET-CT);
- biopsy followed by laboratory histological analysis of tumor tissue samples;
- pyelography;
- scintigraphy.
A consultation involving the treating oncologist and several specialized experts reviews the obtained test results, establishes a final diagnosis, and formulates a treatment plan.
How Much Does Treatment Cost
The final amount is influenced by various factors, but in any case, the cost of treatment in Israel is 30-50% lower than in Western European and American clinics.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- Qualification and experience of doctors who are respected in the global medical community.
- Availability of high-tech equipment.
- Application of innovative treatment methods.
- Comfortable conditions.
- Affordable prices.
The implementation of new methods and drugs in clinical practice allows for successful treatment of the disease. Remember that delaying treatment is not an option, so contact your chosen clinic and start restoring your health.