Laser offers new hope for patients with brain tumors

Sheba Medical Center’s neurosurgery department is pioneering a revolutionary treatment for brain tumors using advanced laser technology known as LITT (Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy). This minimally invasive procedure is performed under general anesthesia, where a thin laser fiber is carefully guided into the tumor using a state-of-the-art neurosurgical navigation system. Once in place, the laser precisely targets and burns the tumor under real-time MRI monitoring. The outcome is a safer, more accurate treatment option.

In an interview with the Mako website, Dr. Tehila Kaisman-Elbaz explained that LITT is designed for patients with inoperable or deep tumors, radiation damage, or drug-resistant epilepsy. She described the procedure: "We make a small incision in the scalp, drill a tiny hole in the skull, and insert a thin laser fiber into the target area."

The innovative laser treatment has several benefits: it is safe, has a low risk, requires a short hospital stay, allows a quick return to daily life, and supports continued oncological treatments. It also reduces the need for steroids, which can have serious side effects.

While LITT technology has recently been integrated into the healthcare system as a treatment option for inoperable brain tumors, it is not suitable for every patient. Sheba’s dedicated multi-disciplinary medical team carefully assesses each case, determining the most effective treatment plan, with the goal of extending patients’ lives and improving their overall quality of life.

Dr. Tehila Kaisman-Elbaz during a neurosurgical operation