Professor Ofer MerimskiHead of the Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Oncology
The combination of world-class neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons with extensive technological capabilities attracts numerous international patients to Israeli clinics. Treatment of osteoblastoma of the spine in Israel follows a comprehensive program using modern surgical and conservative methods. Surgeries are performed using intraoperative navigation, 3D modeling, robotic systems, and neuromonitoring, which minimizes risks and increases the accuracy of tumor removal. The main goal of Israeli doctors is to completely remove the neoplasm while preserving spinal stability and neurological functions.
Great attention is paid to the prompt conduct of accurate diagnostics, the development of a therapeutic program considering the specifics of the disease and the overall condition of the patient. Comfortable conditions, a warm atmosphere, and the presence of an accompanying person to help with organizational issues are of great importance. Patient reviews confirm that the excellent organization of the therapeutic and diagnostic process, transparent pricing, and comprehensive postoperative rehabilitation make Israel one of the best places for treating spinal tumors.
About the Disease
Osteoblastoma of the spine is a rare benign tumor of bone tissue. The neoplasm primarily forms in the posterior elements of the vertebrae (laminae, spinous and transverse processes) and tends to grow slowly. Despite its benign nature, osteoblastoma can cause significant pain and lead to neurological disorders due to its proximity to the spinal cord and nerve roots.
The following types of osteoblastoma of the spine are distinguished:
- low-aggressive – the neoplasm slowly increases in size, the tumor process does not spread to adjacent tissues, and clinical signs usually do not manifest in the early stages of the disease;
- aggressive – the tumor grows rapidly, compressing adjacent nerve endings, which causes pain sensations.
The exact causes of osteoblastoma are not fully established. Risk factors include:
- congenital disorders of bone tissue formation;
- local circulatory disturbances in the bone;
- spinal injuries;
- genetic predisposition (mutations negatively affecting the growth of bone tissue cells).
The disease is most often detected in adolescents and young adults.
Symptoms depend on the location and size of the neoplasm. The most characteristic symptoms include:
- constant localized pain that worsens at night and is not relieved by ordinary painkillers;
- restricted mobility and stiffness of the affected segment of the spinal column;
- muscle spasm;
- neurological symptoms arising from compression of nerve structures (numbness and weakness in the limbs, sensory disturbances, and in severe cases — dysfunction of pelvic organs);
- deformation of the spine (kyphosis, scoliosis) that develops with large tumors.
The prognosis for osteoblastoma of the spine is generally considered favorable, especially with timely diagnosis and appropriately selected treatment tactics.
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Treatment Methods for the Disease
In the diagnosis of non-aggressive osteoblastoma of small size, it is sometimes possible to replace a course of antitumor therapy with observation of the process dynamics. Regular visits to the treating physician and undergoing prescribed examinations allow for timely detection of disease progression and initiation of treatment. However, in most cases, to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications, comprehensive therapy is recommended to be conducted as early as possible. Tumor removal at an early stage helps avoid spinal curvature and the emergence of severe pain that develops with significant neoplasm growth.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical removal of the tumor is the primary method, as osteoblastoma does not respond to medication. At Ichilov Clinic, minimally invasive endoscopic and microscopic methods are used for tumor removal.
- Microsurgical removal – performed through a small access using an operating microscope, with minimal blood loss and slight tissue damage.
- Endoscopic removal – used for tumors of the posterior elements of the vertebrae, access is obtained through small skin incisions. Such interventions are characterized by a low risk of complications and a quick and uncomplicated postoperative period. With normal well-being, the patient stays in the clinic for no more than three days.
The modern neuro-navigation systems O-Arm used at Ichilov Clinic allow the spinal surgeon to see the tumor in real-time and control their actions. Using continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring, the physician responds to the slightest changes, which significantly helps prevent damage to nerve structures.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation sessions are conducted when it is impossible to surgically remove the entire tumor. This method is prescribed with caution, as exposure to such an active mutagen as radioactive radiation can cause malignant transformation of the osteoblastoma. Additionally, the pathology often develops during adolescence, when radiotherapy is indicated only in extreme cases.
Chemotherapy
Administered in conjunction with radiation sessions or independently in the case of tumor recurrence. Ichilov Clinic uses low-toxicity chemotherapy drugs of the latest generation that do not cause severe side effects in patients.
Laser Vaporization
In the early stages of the disease, small tumors are effectively removed using modern laser techniques. Before the procedure begins, the coordinates of the neoplasm are precisely determined, to which a laser fiber is brought through a skin puncture. The irradiation causes a sharp increase in local temperature to a level sufficient for vaporization of the tumor tissues. This method is considered one of the least traumatic ways to remove osteoblastoma of the spine.
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Oncological Surgery
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
At Ichilov Clinic, the professionalism of doctors and modern equipment allows for diagnosis and the development of an effective treatment program within three days.
First Day
Upon arriving at the clinic, the patient attends an initial consultation with the treating orthopedic surgeon. During the appointment, the doctor reviews the medical history, conclusions from previous examinations, conducts a superficial examination, and prescribes additional tests.
Second Day
Undergoing diagnostic examinations:
- x-ray of the spine – allows for assessment of bone changes, possible deformations, and destruction of the posterior elements of the vertebrae;
- computed tomography (CT) – one of the key diagnostic methods that allows for clear visualization of bone structure, identification of pathological foci, and assessment of the degree of involvement of the laminae, processes, and intervertebral joints in the tumor process;
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – the most informative method for studying soft tissues, allows for assessment of the size and extent of tumor spread, determination of its impact on the spinal cord and roots, and identification of edema, inflammation, and compression of nerve structures;
- positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) – used to assess the spread of pathological changes and exclude malignant processes;
- bone scintigraphy – a radiological study of bone tissue that allows for assessment of tumor spread and identification of distant metastases;
- biopsy – sampling of tumor tissues for subsequent cytological and histological analysis.
Third Day
The results of the studies are submitted for review by the medical board. After reviewing the information, the doctors collectively determine the diagnosis and select the most effective treatment methods for the patient.
- Biopsy
- Computed Tomography
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Diagnosis — PET CT
- X-ray
How Much Does Treatment Cost
The cost of treatment in Israel is accessible to most medical tourists. The final price is determined after therapy is conducted and depends on a number of factors. By contacting the consultant at the clinic using the number provided on the website, you can find out the estimated amount.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- Excellent training of doctors.
- Equipping clinics with modern diagnostic and therapeutic equipment.
- Advanced methods of antitumor therapy.
- Comfortable conditions for undergoing therapy.
- Affordable prices.
International patients can have an online consultation with a doctor from an Israeli clinic without leaving home. To do this, you should contact the consultant, agree on a consultation time, and provide the available medical documentation. The specialist will answer questions, evaluate the conducted studies, and recommend further treatment.