Ihilov Clinic provides top-notch treatment for patients with rare cardiological diseases, including those presenting with such a rare tumour as teratoma. In the case of complex or rare diseases, it is extremely important to receive help from specialists with experience in treating similar pathologies. Ihilov Clinic collaborates with cardiologists and oncologists whose achievements in the field of heart tumour treatment are recognized far beyond the borders of Israel. Therefore, patients who come to Ihilov can be assured that the clinic's experts will offer them the most effective treatment strategy. Reviews of treatment in the cardiology department of Ihilov Clinic confirm this. Patients note the excellent organization of treatment, rapid improvement in well-being, and comfort during their stay at the clinic.
Treatment Methods for Cardiac Teratoma
The choice of treatment depends on the diagnosis of the examined lesion. Surgical resection is indicated in a large percentage of cases. However, while most tumours and cysts of the mediastinum are treated surgically, medication therapy is the primary form of treatment for some forms of the disease.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy helps stop the growth of cancer cells, either by destroying them or halting their division. During treatment, drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy is indicated for patients whose tumours contain malignant cells. Ihilov Clinic uses the most modern drugs with lower toxic effects. They are better tolerated by patients as they have fewer side effects than older generation drugs.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs aimed at specific proteins in cancer cells. Targeted therapy does not harm healthy cells. For example, mTOR inhibitor therapy stops cell division and can prevent the growth of new blood vessels necessary for nourishing the tumour, thereby leading to its death.
Surgical Operation
Complete surgical resection is indicated for benign teratomas. To access the cardiac tumour, tissues of the thoracic cavity are incised, and the operation is performed on an open heart. Ihilov surgeons may also recommend performing a robot-assisted surgery using the da Vinci system. The manipulations performed on this system minimize all surgical risks and avoid excessive trauma to the heart tissues, facilitating faster recovery for the patient after the operation.
Pericardial Puncture – Eliminating Cardiac Tamponade
Teratomas are characterized by cystic cavities that can accumulate fluid, compressing the heart cavities. To restore organ function, a puncture is performed – the fluid is suctioned through a puncture under local anesthesia. In some cases, the procedure may need to be repeated, and a drain may be installed for the patient. To ensure maximum accuracy, the procedure is performed under ultrasound control.
Diagnosis of the Disease – What Studies are Needed
At Ihilov Clinic, diagnosis is conducted as quickly as possible, without long waits, as its schedule is planned even before the patient arrives at the clinic. The technical equipment of the diagnostic unit and the latest technologies allow for 100% accuracy in determining the form and stage of the disease, as well as in defining the treatment strategy and prognosis. On average, the examination process takes three days.
The patient consults with a cardiologist. The doctor conducts an examination, studies the medical history, clarifies symptoms, and compiles a list of necessary studies for a more accurate diagnosis.
The patient undergoes laboratory and instrumental studies. During this stage, the following tests and procedures may be used:
- Chest X-ray
- CT (computed tomography)
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
- Echo-cardiogram
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
A diagnostic catheterization of the heart may also be suggested – a procedure to examine blood vessels and the heart for abnormal areas or cancer. A long thin catheter is inserted into an artery or vein in the groin, neck, or arm and advanced through the blood vessels to the heart. A tissue sample is taken using a special instrument. A pathologist examines the tissue under a microscope for cancer cells.
When all test results are ready, the attending physician gathers a consultation where the final diagnosis is made and a therapy scheme is developed. The collegial composition of the treatment program prevents the slightest possibility of medical error. The patient or their representative may attend this discussion and ask questions.
How Much Does Treatment of Cardiac Teratoma Cost in Israel
The cost of treating a heart tumour largely depends on the stage and form of the disease, as these factors influence the choice of therapeutic methods and means. An approximate price for treatment can be calculated by our medical consultant in advance, but the exact cost will only be known after a complete examination and the development of a treatment plan.
It is worth noting that, in general, the cost of treatment at Ihilov Clinic is 30-50% lower than in similar-level clinics accepting foreign patients in Western Europe or America.
Advantages of Treatment at Ihilov
- Top-notch cardiologists with solid successful experience in treating heart tumours, including teratomas.
- Availability of the latest treatment methods that yield better results, the clinic is equipped with modern diagnostic equipment and therapeutic procedures.
- Choice of gentle methods, without severe side effects, and attentive attitude of medical staff towards patients and their needs.
- Moderate prices, the best price-quality ratio of the services provided.
If you or your loved ones have signs of a heart tumour and you want to consult an Israeli specialist, just contact the doctors at our contact center, request a callback, or call the phone number listed on the website. Organizing direct communication with an expert in heart tumour treatment will take from one to three days.