Ihilov Clinic is a leading multidisciplinary medical institution in Israel, recognized worldwide as one of the leaders in medical tourism. Every year, patients from Israel and around the world seek medical assistance from the clinic's specialists and leave positive reviews. It is no coincidence that Newsweek magazine included this medical center among the top ten destinations for medical tourists.
The clinic rightfully boasts the highest recovery rates for patients with a wide range of diseases and conditions. The team of doctors consists of world-class experts in neurosurgery, oncology, hematology, orthopedics, cardiology, microsurgery, genetics, and other fields. Ihilov is not just a hospital; it is a leading academic and research medical center in Israel, always at the forefront of research and innovation. Moreover, the stay in the hospital (including medical expenses and transportation costs) is much cheaper here than in a comparable medical institution in the USA or Europe.
About the Disease
Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are lysosomal storage disorders caused by a deficiency of enzymes necessary for the stepwise breakdown of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), also known as mucopolysaccharides. These conditions vary in their clinical features and age of onset.
There are many types of MPS depending on which specific enzyme is absent. The types are classified using Roman numerals, and sometimes they are also given specific names (e.g., Hurler syndrome, Hunter syndrome, Morquio syndrome, and others).
Different types of mucopolysaccharidoses have somewhat different symptoms, but generally, in infancy and childhood, short stature, hairiness, and developmental anomalies become noticeable. The face may appear heavy with a large head, protruding forehead, short nose, large lips, and tongue. Some types of mucopolysaccharidoses cause intellectual disability, which may worsen over a person's lifetime. In some types, vision or hearing may be impaired. Arteries or heart valves may be affected. Finger joints are often stiff.
Treatment Methods for Mucopolysaccharidosis
MPS can affect many different systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, skeletal, and neurological systems. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is available for some MPS. Other treatment methods focus on managing symptoms.
Enzyme Replacement Therapy
Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is currently available for treating MPS I (Hurler, Hurler-Scheie, and Scheie syndromes) (laronidase), MPS II (Hunter syndrome) (idursulfase), and MPS VI (Maroteaux-Lamy) (galsulfase). MPS IV (Morquio syndrome) and MPS VII (Sly syndrome) are also included. The benefits of ERT may include improved walking ability, better breathing, and enhanced quality of life. The ERT regimen includes intravenous infusions of recombinant human enzyme weekly or biweekly. ERT is a lifelong therapy, and each infusion takes 1–4 hours depending on the enzyme and dosage. The possibility of home therapy for any patient with MPS is based on a risk-benefit assessment by the treating physician, the patient, and the caregiver.
Bone Marrow Transplantation
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) may help some patients with severe forms of the disease and is usually recommended within the first 1-2 years of life. HSCT involves a toxic ablative conditioning regimen to destroy the patient's own stem cell population, followed by immunosuppression and semi-isolation for up to 12 months.
Surgery
Surgery may be used to treat various symptoms associated with mucopolysaccharidosis, including carpal tunnel syndrome, skeletal malformations, and hernias. Corneal transplantation has been performed with mixed results. Physical therapy and exercises may improve joint mobility. Hydrocephalus can be treated by inserting a tube (shunt) to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain to another part of the body where the CSF can be absorbed. In some cases, heart valve replacement may be necessary.
- Surgeries in Israel
- Bone marrow transplantation in Israel
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
Diagnosis at Ihilov Clinic is always carefully planned and takes no more than three working days.
Upon arrival at the clinic, the patient meets with the attending physician. The doctor conducts an examination, reviews the medical history and symptoms, and orders a series of necessary tests to clarify the diagnosis.
To establish an accurate diagnosis, the following types of tests may be conducted:
- blood tests;
- urine tests: toluidine blue spot tests;
- genetic testing;
- X-rays of all sections of the spine and lower extremities.
Once the examination results are ready, an expert commission is assembled, consisting of specialists from related medical fields such as neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, otolaryngologists, and physiotherapists. They collegially select the most relevant treatment methods to improve the prognosis and avoid medical errors.
- X-ray
How Much Does Treatment Cost in Israel
The cost of treatment is always calculated individually and depends on the complexity of the patient's condition. The final price is announced after the therapeutic protocol is established. In general, treatment prices in Israel are 30-50% lower than in good clinics in the EU and the UK. To find out the approximate cost of treatment, please contact a representative of our contact center using any of the available feedback forms.
Reasons Why Patients Choose Ihilov
- Ihilov is one of the places where you can receive the highest quality medical services in Israel at an affordable price.
- The clinic is equipped with the latest medical technology. This allows for necessary examinations for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
- Each patient is guaranteed an individual approach and comprehensive attention from a qualified team of specialists.
- The clinic offers first-class support services aimed at ensuring that patients encounter no difficulties, including translator services, personal escorts, and psychologists.
If you or your loved ones have signs of the disease and wish to receive treatment at the Israeli Ihilov Clinic, please contact our international department at the phone number listed on the website. We will be happy to assist in organizing your trip for treatment.