Spinal Hemangioma

Spinal Hemangioma Treatment in Israel

What is a spinal hemangioma and when does it need treatment?

A spinal hemangioma is a vascular tumor that forms inside the vertebra. In simple terms, it is an overgrowth of tiny blood vessels within the bone. Many people live their whole lives never knowing they have it. In fact, it is one of the most common “incidental findings” we see on MRI or CT scans performed for back pain, injuries, or even regular check-ups.

In most situations, the tumor stays quiet, does not grow, and requires no intervention. But there are exceptions. When a hemangioma enlarges, it can weaken the bone and press on nearby structures such as the spinal cord or exiting nerves. This is when patients may start experiencing back pain, tingling or weakness in the limbs, and in rare cases even fractures of the vertebra. That is why doctors in Israel pay close attention not only to the size of the hemangioma, but also to how it behaves over time.

What symptoms should raise concern?

Most hemangiomas remain silent. But if they become active, patients may notice:

• steady back pain that doesn’t improve with rest,
• numbness or weakness in the arms or legs,
• difficulties with walking or maintaining balance,
• in severe cases, sudden pain due to a compression fracture.

We often meet patients who ignored mild discomfort for months, thinking it was “just the back.” An MRI later revealed that the vertebra was weakened by a hemangioma. Recognizing the signs early can prevent serious complications.

Which diagnostic methods are used in Israel?

Israeli centers emphasize speed and precision in diagnostics. Most patients complete their work-up within 2–3 days.

• MRI is the gold standard. It shows the hemangioma’s exact size and location.
• CT scans are added when doctors need a detailed picture of bone damage.
• X-rays are used less often, but sometimes help as a first look.

The key difference in Israel is not just the machines, but the teamwork: radiologists and neurosurgeons review the scans together, which means the treatment plan is built faster and more accurately.

How do Israeli doctors treat spinal hemangiomas?

There is no single recipe. Every case is discussed at a multidisciplinary board. Some patients only need observation. Others require active treatment.

• Observation — when the tumor is small and does not grow.
• Pain management — medications or injections for symptom relief.
• Radiation therapy — used when the lesion causes pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
• Endovascular embolization — blocking the blood supply to the hemangioma through a catheter.
• Surgery — for large or aggressive tumors, often combined with spinal fixation.

One of the frequent concerns we hear from patients is fear of open surgery. A man in his 40s once told us he postponed treatment for a year because he was terrified of a big operation. In Israel, he was offered a minimally invasive embolization combined with vertebroplasty. Two days later, he walked out of the hospital without the pain that had haunted him for months.

What innovative approaches are available in Israel?

The strongest point of Israeli neurosurgery is innovation. Doctors here look for ways to solve the problem without unnecessary trauma.

• Vertebroplasty. A special medical cement is injected into the affected vertebra. Within minutes, the bone becomes stronger, and pain often fades almost immediately. Many patients are surprised at how quickly they recover — one woman even said she expected weeks in hospital, but went home the next day.
• Endoscopic surgery. The surgeon reaches the tumor through a small incision, using a camera and fine instruments. Recovery is faster, scars are minimal.
• Combined approaches. For example, first embolization to block the blood supply, then vertebroplasty to stabilize the bone. This two-step method is especially effective in larger hemangiomas.

These methods allow many people to avoid the large, open operations they once feared.

What is the prognosis after treatment?

In most cases, the outcome is very positive. With the right treatment, patients return to normal life without the constant pain or fear of fracture. What makes Israeli care special is not just the technology, but also the long-term follow-up: even after discharge, patients remain under observation, and the team is available for remote consultations.

Summary

Spinal hemangioma treatment in Israel combines cutting-edge technology, minimally invasive procedures, and the expertise of leading neurosurgeons. The focus is always on patient safety and long-term results. Many people who once feared major surgery discover that in Israel they can be treated quickly, safely, and return to their normal lives much sooner than expected.

Send us your MRI scans today and receive a personalized treatment plan from Israel’s leading neurosurgeons within just a few days.

📞 Call us: +972-73-374-6844
📧 Email: [email protected]
💬 WhatsApp: +972-52-337-3108

FAQ — Common patient questions about spinal hemangioma in Israel

 1. Does every hemangioma need to be treated?
Prof. Regev Gilad: No. We often find them by accident, and many never cause harm. If it stays stable, I recommend just regular monitoring. Treatment is needed only if it grows or starts causing symptoms.

2. Can a spinal hemangioma be dangerous?
Prof. Regev Gilad: Usually not. But if it weakens the bone or presses on nerves, it becomes risky. I once had a patient with sudden leg weakness due to a fracture caused by a hemangioma — after treatment, he returned to normal walking. So yes, danger exists, but it can be managed effectively.

 3. What treatment do you use most often?
Prof. Zvi Lidar:It varies. Vertebroplasty is common because it’s quick and effective. In other cases we use embolization or radiation. Surgery is reserved for complex situations.

 4. How quickly can I get diagnosed in Israel?
Prof. Regev Gilad: Normally within 2–3 days. We arrange MRI, sometimes CT, and then a consultation. For urgent cases, we make it even faster.

 5. How much does spinal hemangioma treatment cost in Israel?
Andonis Artur (Head of Medical Tourism): The price depends on the method. Minimally invasive procedures start around $10,000–19,000. Surgery costs more. We confirm the exact estimate after reviewing MRI scans. You can also find detailed information about prices on the “Treatment Prices” page.

 6. How long will I need to stay in Israel?
Andonis Artur (Head of Medical Tourism): For diagnosis — 2–3 days. After vertebroplasty or embolization, many patients fly home in 1–2 days. After surgery, you should expect about a week of hospitalization.

 7. Can I get an online consultation before traveling?
Andonis Arthur (Head of Medical Tourism): Of course. Patients send us MRI scans and reports, and our doctors give a preliminary opinion. This helps families come prepared and avoid surprises.