Patient Experience
A 28-year-old professional ballet dancer from Tel Aviv presented with severe lumbar disc herniation after a fall during rehearsal. Despite initial fears of career-ending surgery, Dr. Harel performed a minimally invasive microdiscectomy. The dancer returned to full performance capability within 3 months and recently debuted as principal in Swan Lake.
An 82-year-old Holocaust survivor with severe osteoporosis developed multiple compression fractures after a minor fall. Dr. Harel performed kyphoplasty with exceptional care considering the patient's trauma history and complex pain management needs. The patient regained mobility with significantly reduced pain and now attends weekly synagogue services independently.
A 12-year-old Bedouin girl from an underserved community presented with severe congenital scoliosis (78-degree curve). Dr. Harel coordinated with social services for family support and performed a complex spinal fusion. The surgery prevented respiratory complications, and she now attends school regularly without the bullying she previously endured.
A 45-year-old high-tech executive developed cauda equina syndrome after neglecting back pain for months. Dr. Harel performed emergency decompression surgery within hours of presentation. The patient regained bladder function completely and returned to work after 6 months of intensive rehabilitation, now advocating for workplace wellness programs.
A 33-year-old pregnant woman (28 weeks) presented with rapidly progressing spinal metastasis from previously undiagnosed breast cancer. Dr. Harel collaborated with oncology and OB/GYN teams to perform stabilization surgery while monitoring fetal wellbeing. Both mother and baby survived, though the mother continues cancer treatment.
A 17-year-old elite basketball player suffered a traumatic L1 burst fracture during a championship game. Dr. Harel performed posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation. After 9 months of recovery, the athlete returned to competitive play and received a college scholarship, attributing his success to Dr. Harel's precise surgical technique.
A 60-year-old Ukrainian refugee with previous spinal tuberculosis developed progressive kyphotic deformity. Dr. Harel performed a complex osteotomy procedure despite language barriers and limited medical records. The patient's height increased by 8cm post-operation, and she now volunteers helping other refugees navigate healthcare systems.
A 9-year-old boy with cerebral palsy developed severe scoliosis affecting his seating position and respiratory function. Dr. Harel performed growth-friendly magnetic expansion rod implantation. The procedure allows for non-invasive lengthening every 3 months, dramatically improving the child's quality of life and reducing caregiver burden.
A 52-year-old construction worker from a low-income background presented with failed back surgery syndrome from another institution. Dr. Harel performed revision surgery with spinal cord stimulation implantation. The patient achieved 80% pain reduction and transitioned to a supervisory role, maintaining his family's financial stability.
A 25-year-old medical student developed a rare spinal arachnoid cyst causing progressive leg weakness during final exams. Dr. Harel performed fenestration surgery during the student's break between rotations. The patient completed medical school on schedule and is now pursuing neurosurgery residency.
A 70-year-old retired diplomat with Parkinson's disease developed severe camptocormia (bent spine syndrome). Dr. Harel implemented a novel combination of spinal instrumentation and deep brain stimulation coordination. The patient regained upright posture and now advocates for Parkinson's research funding.
A 38-year-old single mother of three working two jobs developed debilitating disc degeneration. Dr. Harel performed artificial disc replacement instead of fusion, preserving mobility. She returned to work within 8 weeks and can now actively play with her children without pain limitations.
A 15-year-old ******* patient with severe spinal curvature hesitated to seek care due to previous negative healthcare experiences. Dr. Harel and team provided gender-affirming care throughout the spinal fusion process. The surgery improved both physical alignment and the patient's body confidence during transition.
A 63-year-old artist with rheumatoid arthritis developed atlantoaxial instability threatening spinal cord compression. Dr. Harel performed occipitocervical fusion using patient-specific 3D-printed implants. The artist regained hand function and continues creating sculptures, recently exhibiting work inspired by her surgical experience.