We help you choose a clinic and a neurosurgeon for Parkinson's disease treatment, including deep brain stimulation. First the doctor reviews your documents, then you compare programs from clinics in Israel, Turkey and Spain.
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The essentials
Parkinson's disease is a chronic condition in which the brain cells that produce dopamine gradually die. As a result, movements become slow and stiff, the hands start to tremble, and walking and speech change. The disease cannot be fully cured today, but treatment helps reduce symptoms and stay active for longer.
Treatment of Parkinson's disease abroad is chosen according to the stage and how well the medication works. It usually starts with adjusting the medication, and when the drugs help less or cause side effects, minimally invasive surgery is considered, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) or focused ultrasound. We help you get the opinion of a neurologist or neurosurgeon from a clinic abroad before you travel, compare programs and arrange treatment.
How treatment can help
Reduce tremor and stiffnessAdjusting medication and surgical methods aim to lessen movement symptoms.
Even out medication effectsDeep brain stimulation may help when the effect of the drugs becomes unstable or comes with side effects.
Stay independent for longerThe goal of treatment is to help the person move, take care of themselves and keep their usual way of life for as long as possible.
The result depends on the stage of the disease, age, general condition and how the patient responds to medication. Which method suits you is decided by the neurologist and neurosurgeon after examination.
When to ask for a review
Parkinson's disease is confirmedor a neurologist suspects it from the symptoms
Medication has become less effectiveeach dose wears off sooner and symptoms return
Medication side effects have appearedinvoluntary movements, ups and downs during the day
Tremor gets in the way of daily lifeeating, writing and dressing are difficult
Your doctor has suggested brain surgeryand you want a second opinion
Walking and balance have worsenedmore frequent falls, a stiff gait
Not sure whether you need surgery or a change in therapy? Send us your medical documents - a doctor from a clinic abroad will review them before your trip.
The best doctors for Treatment of Parkinson's disease
Professor Akin Akakin is a successful and highly respected neurologist in Turkey. He completed his thesis on the effects of Gamma Knife treatment and embolization. Dr. Akin specializes in the treatment of diseases and tumors of the spine, nerves and brain.
Membership:
Turkish Neurological Society.
Awards:
Brain Research Award from the Turkish Society for Brain Research;
SSCD Award;
FSM Hospital Award;
Award of the Eurasian Academy of Neurological Surgery.
Published 3 articles on the following topics: Cervical meningocele; Anatomy of cerebral veins and sinuses; Deep venous thrombosis.
Dr. Strauss is a neurosurgeon, head of the functional neurosurgery service at the Ichilov Medical Center. He runs a private practice at the Assuta clinic. He is a laureate of international and national awards for research and development, including for the study of Alzheimer’s disease.
The doctor’s specialization is the treatment of various functional disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system, including movement disorders (primary tremor, dystonia, Parkinson’s disease). In the treatment of neurological disorders, the doctor uses deep brain stimulation and other minimally invasive techniques. He owns surgical methods for the treatment of epilepsy using open and minimally invasive operations.
The doctor collaborates with several medical universities, where he lectures on neuroanatomy and neurotrauma. He compiled a clinical guide to neurosurgery for medical students.
The doctor combines medical and pedagogical work with scientific research. He is the author of papers published in international medical journals.
MEMBERSHIP IN MEDICAL ASSOCIATIONS
American Society of Neurosurgeons.
World Federation of Striatal and Functional Neurosurgery.
In 2012, he received the first prize for the encouragement of young neurosurgeons and in 2014 the award of the Turkish Association of Neurosurgeons “Encouraging Scientific Research in Neuro-Oncology Surgery”.
He started working as a specialist doctor at the Neurosurgery Clinic of Istanbul University, Istanbul Medical Faculty, where he received specialized training in brain and nerve surgery from March 2013. In October 2017, he received the academic title of associate professor, and in January 2023, he received the title of professor at the same department.
He is a member of the Turkish Neurosurgery Association and the Nervous System Surgery Association.
He serves on the advisory board of the National Journal of Traumatology and Emergency Surgery.
He is a member of the Turkish Neurosurgery Association and the Nervous System Surgery Association.
He serves on the advisory board of the National Journal of Traumatology and Emergency Surgery.
He is a member of the Faculty Council of Istanbul Medical Faculty.
He has 14 national and 59 international articles and eight book chapters.
Baran Yilmaz is a neurosurgeon at LIV Istinye University Hospital in Istanbul. He specialises in deep brain stimulation (DBS), treatment of Parkinson’s disease, brain and spinal cord tumours, and spinal disorders.
He completed his medical education and neurosurgical training at Marmara University and undertook a research fellowship at Yale University in the USA. He has authored more than 60 scientific publications and is a member of the Turkish Neurosurgical Society, the Turkish Spine Society and AOSpine.
Professor Ali Zirh is a neurosurgeon at Medipol University Hospital in Istanbul, specialising in stereotactic and functional neurosurgery. He provides surgical treatment for Parkinson’s disease, tremor, dystonia and other movement disorders, including deep brain stimulation (DBS).
He has over 30 years of experience in functional neurosurgery. He studied medicine at Hacettepe University and trained in neurosurgery at Marmara University. He completed fellowships in the USA and Canada and holds certification from the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS). He has authored 150 scientific papers.
Transfer from / to the airportVisa assistancePersonal assistantWi-Fi InternetReservation of accommodation and airline ticketsTranslatorAccommodation for accompanying personSingle room
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) is one of the largest public hospitals in Israel, located in Tel Aviv. In addition to treatment and diagnostics, scientific activities are carried out here, and research centers of the Faculty of Medicine of Tel Aviv University and the Sheinborn Specialized Medical School operate on the basis of the clinic. Ichilov is a leading center for medical tourism, offering foreign patients full support, including interpreters, flight and accommodation arrangements. Thanks to government funding and supervision by the Ministry of Health, the cost of medical services at the center remains affordable with a high level of treatment.
Certification according to DIN EN ISO 9001 by TÜV NORD CERT DE
NPISTANBUL Brain Hospital is the first private neuropsychiatric hospital in Turkey and the second in Europe, specializing in the treatment of brain diseases from the perspectives of neurosurgery, psychiatry and neurology. The hospital is accredited by JCI and has been awarded the 1A Ultra Clean award for the high level of sterility of its operating rooms.
Quality Management System Certification for compliance with ISO 9001 in the German accreditation system DAkkS
Joint Commission International
ISO 15189
The World's Best Hospitals 2019
Acibadem is the largest and one of the most renowned medical groups in Turkey, which annually receives more than 40 thousand patients from different countries, including the CIS. The network includes 22 university clinics in 5 countries and offers specialized centers in such areas as oncology, cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, neurosurgery, organ transplantation, and robotic surgery. Acibadem clinics are known for the high quality of medical services thanks to innovative technologies and unique specialists using state-of-the-art equipment. The effectiveness of treatment is confirmed by standards and innovations, as well as by the large number of successful surgeries and procedures performed each year.
A neurologist's report with the diagnosis and a description of symptoms
Brain MRI (images and report)
A list of medications with doses and schedule
A description of how you feel during the day while taking medication
Information about other conditions and previous surgery
Missing some documents? That is fine: the coordinator will tell you which tests are needed.
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We will contact you within 15 minutes
Treatment cost
The clinic gives the exact price after reviewing your documents. We send you programs from several clinics so you can compare prices and what is included. Experts Medical services are free for patients, and you pay the clinic directly.
What the price depends on
Treatment method: adjusting therapy, deep brain stimulation or ultrasound treatment
Scope of examination: MRI and other tests the doctor prescribes
Country and clinic: the level of the neurology center and the neurosurgeon's experience
Length of stay: about 22 days with follow-up consultations under the surgery program
You don't pay for the services of Experts Medical
as we are representatives of more than 100 foreign clinics
You get treatment without extra fees
You make all payments only at the clinic upon arrival
Parkinson’s disease is a slowly progressive disease in which brain cells responsible for human motor functions die. The condition is sometimes referred to as “trembling paralysis”. It has a chronic character.
According to WHO, Parkinson’s disease is the most common pathology in people over 60 years old, and men are affected by the disease 2 times more often than women.
Modern medicine does not have methods for the complete cure of this pathology. However, the treatment of Parkinson’s disease abroad in leading clinics guarantees high-quality medical care that can return the patient to a full life.
Causes and Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the gradual destruction of brain cells that produce dopamine. The lack of this substance leads to the occurrence of the disease. The exact causes of the onset of the disease have not been established.
The risk group includes the following categories of people:
if relatives have a disease;
poisoning with toxic substances, such as heavy metals, alcohol, drugs;
previous brain injuries;
neuroinfections, such as meningitis and encephalitis;
atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels.
The first harbingers of a developing pathology are the loss of smell and a change in handwriting.
Characteristic manifestations:
slow motion;
tremor of the limbs and the head both during movement and at rest;
changes in posture – a person walks with a slight bend;
quiet slurred speech;
muscle stiffness (tension that makes it difficult to move);
gait disorder;
jumps in blood pressure.
The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease worsen as the disease progresses. There are 5 stages of the disease:
1 stage. A person begins to feel stiffness in one hand, fatigue, depressed mood, suffer from insomnia, and notice changes in handwriting.
2 stage. The patient’s speech worsens, a tremor in both hands appears, and gait worsens.
3 stage. There are problems with balance, festinating gait, and constant twitching of the head.
4 stage. The patient often loses balance and is in a state of depression.
5 stage. A person rapidly develops dementia, swallowing function is impaired, and cannot move independently.
The development of the disease is preceded by a zero stage, in which there are no symptoms. At this stage, the pathology can be diagnosed by the level of dopamine, using special tests – DAT-SPECT and IBZM-SPECT.
Why is it important to start treatment for Parkinson's disease early?
The lack of treatment for Parkinson’s disease leads to the development of movement disorders, which threatens the patient with falls and injuries. They can be complicated by comorbidities such as osteoporosis (brittle bones).
The sooner you diagnose and start treatment, the higher the chance of:
to reduce significantly the manifestation of symptoms;
for a long time to preserve the possibility of a full-fledged lifestyle;
to slow down the progression.
Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease Abroad
Treatment of Parkinson’s disease abroad provides for an accurate diagnosis, which largely determines the tactics and successful outcome of therapy. In foreign hospitals, a set of studies using modern devices is used to make a diagnosis, which includes:
electromyography;
electroencephalography;
computed, magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography (PET).
In the leading hospitals in Israel, diagnostics are carried out using a specially developed PET method – Dat Scanning PET CT. It allows to accurately visualize the location of foci of the destruction of brain cells.
What is Conservative Therapy?
At an early stage, for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, doctors prescribe drug therapy. It includes special neurotropic drugs that are designed to improve the conductivity of nerve cells and reduce spasms and tremors.
Botulinum therapy helps to reduce muscle hyperactivity and pain. The doctor makes a subcutaneous injection of Botox into the spasmodic muscles. The procedure is performed under the control of electromyography, a special device for monitoring muscle contraction.
When treating the disease, a special diet and attendance at physiotherapy sessions are also important.
Methods of Treatment of Parkinson's Disease Abroad
Neurosurgeons in foreign Parkinson’s clinics have made great strides in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. In the states of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, it is mainly aimed at relieving symptoms.
The most effective methods in the leading neurological centers in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease abroad are minimally invasive interventions on the brain:
Deep brain stimulation (DBS).
Ultrasonic scalpel (MRiFUS).
Stereotactic ablation. This is a radiosurgical technique, in which the doctor steams the affected area of the patient’s brain tissue.
There is another experimental technology that has begun to be used in the best neurosurgical departments. For the treatment of Parkinson’s disease abroad, the implantation of stem cells that produce dopamine is carried out.
Indications for surgical treatment of Parkinson’s disease may include:
lack or decrease in the positive response to traditional therapies;
adverse reactions to medications;
young age, surgery can prolong the social activity of a person;
decrease in working capacity;
unwillingness of the patient to depend on others and be a burden to them.
Surgical procedures are not able to completely treat Parkinson’s disease, but they can significantly reduce the patient’s functional disorders and improve his (or her) well-being.
DBS in the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease Abroad
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective surgical therapy that can normalize brain electrical activity and reduce symptoms.
The procedure is based on the installation of a DBS system, which will constantly affect the subcortical structures of the brain with weak electric currents.
The DBS device consists of three components:
electrode;
micro cable;
neurostimulator.
Deep brain stimulation is performed under local anesthesia.
The operation consists of several stages, during which the doctor:
Carefully examines the patient and conducts an MRI of the brain.
Implants electrodes in the right part of the brain.
Installs a neurostimulator in the collarbone area under the skin.
Connects the neurostimulator to the electrode using a microcable, which is sewn under the skin in the head, neck, and above the collarbone.
After 2-3 weeks, the doctor programs the neurostimulator, which generates continuous impulses to normalize the electrical activity of the brain.
Typically, a neurostimulator serves a person for 4-5 years. It works on batteries. The replacement of the neurostimulator is carried out on an outpatient basis. There are rechargeable neurostimulators that last longer but they require regular recharging.
Ultrasound surgery in the treatment of Parkinson's disease abroad
In recent years, leading Parkinson’s clinics have been offering patients an advanced treatment method – MRiFUS (ultrasonic scalpel). When using this technology, the impact of ultrasonic waves on the affected areas of the patient’s brain is carried out.
The operation is performed under the control of the latest generation 3Tesla MRI machine. The device allows the doctor to direct the beam to the desired area of the brain with an accuracy of up to a millimeter. It also controls the ablation process in real-time using video surveillance.
During the operation, the patient is conscious, the doctor talks to him, and regularly checks motor functions. This is an important point for a successful outcome.
Among the advantages:
the procedure is non-invasive, so there are no incisions or scars;
no need for implantation in the body of devices and periodic replacement of batteries;
improvement in brain function occurs within 10 minutes after the start of the procedure;
in most cases, 1 session is enough, if necessary, it can be repeated;
no adverse reactions of the body.
The only drawback is the higher cost of the procedure compared to deep brain stimulation.
Ultrasound therapy can significantly reduce symptoms in all patients. It is suitable as an alternative to brain surgery, mainly for patients with unilateral tremor.
Clinics for the Treatment of Parkinson's
Parkinson’s treatment abroad is carried out in advanced clinics equipped with modern equipment for performing interventions on the brain. Leading Parkinson’s clinics are equipped with intraoperative MRI, neuronavigation and neurophysiological monitoring systems.
They provide the doctor with a maximum overview of the surgical field, allow to accurately perform the necessary manipulations. The risks of this type of intervention are practically reduced to zero.
Foreign patients for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease abroad most often choose hospitals in Germany, South Korea, Turkey, Austria, Israel, and Greece.
TOP-3 clinics for the treatment of Parkinson’s:
Sourasky Medical Center (Israel, Tel Aviv). The neurosurgical center employs doctors of the highest category. One of the leading neurosurgeons is Itzhak Fried, a specialist in the treatment of epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease. He carried out over 3,200 successful brain surgeries.
NP clinic (Turkey, Istanbul). He specializes in the treatment of brain diseases. The well-known neurosurgeon Mustafa Bozbuga practices in the hospital. He is one of the most sought-after specialists in Istanbul and has over 30 years of experience.
Acibadem Medical Network is one of the best Turkish clinics for the treatment of Parkinson’s. Well-known Turkish specialists work in the hospitals of the network. Leading neurosurgeons are Memet Ozek and Halit Cavujoglu.
All leading Parkinson’s clinics are equipped with modern equipment for the recovery of patients after surgery. A comprehensive rehabilitation plan is developed by a group of specialists individually for each person. This program will not only consolidate the results of the operation but also significantly improve the quality of life.
When choosing a medical center for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease abroad, one should take into account: the availability of special medical diagnostic and rehabilitation equipment, the doctor’s experience, and the certification of drugs. You can read about the reviews and conditions of stay in Parkinson’s clinics on the Experts Medical website. The medical coordinator of the company will answer the questions.
How much does Parkinson's disease treatment cost abroad?
The cost of deep brain stimulation in clinics in Turkey is from $20,000, in Israel – $42,000, and in Germany – $80,000. The price can be affected by the level of comfort in the hospital, the equipment used for diagnostics, and the qualifications of the doctor. The services of an experienced doctor with an advanced degree will be higher than the usual rates.
How is it possible to go abroad for Parkinson's disease treatment?
Patients from Central Asia and Eastern Europe have access to quality Parkinson’s disease treatment in the best hospitals abroad. Doctors-coordinators of Experts Medical will help you quickly organize a trip. To do this, you need to call the phone numbers listed on the website.
The coordinator will consult the patient free of charge and help to choose a hospital and an attending physician, with whom he organizes a preliminary online consultation. If necessary, Experts Medical also provides services for the preparation of medical documents, booking air tickets, hotel rooms, and transfer.
A patient from Albania shares their experience of Parkinson’s disease treatment at the Medipol PARMER Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center in Turkey.
16/01/2025
Michail
5/5
Rating:
Diagnosis: Parkinson's disease
For a long time they could not help my father in his native country. We were transferred from doctor to doctor, stuffed with pills and simply told that nothing else would help. But I did not think so and turned for help abroad. We were admitted to the Turkish Medistate Clinic. Dr. Mehmet Ershahin took care of my father. He said that all is not lost yet and deep stimulation will improve the condition. And so it happened. A couple of hours after the operation, my father’s tremor softened, his speech became more understandable and his coordination of movements improved. I did not expect this, but I was incredibly happy with the result!
Alexej
5/5
Rating:
Diagnosis: Parkinson's disease
My life changed when I got Parkinson’s. I was a writer and could no longer do what I wanted to do. The disease developed, the tremor intensified every day. I thought there was no hope. My wife and I went to Moscow, but they could not help us in any way. And then they accidentally found the website of the Turkish clinic Memorial on the Internet. I underwent deep brain stimulation surgery and the treatment program was compiled by Dr. Akdemir himself. And it helped. The tremor has subsided. Let my life not be the same, but I feel better.
Rima
5/5
Rating:
Diagnosis: Parkinson's disease
My mother had a deep stimulation procedure with Prof. Serdar Baki in Turkey. I really liked the clinic (everywhere is clean, modern equipment, good repair), the professionalism of the medical staff. The operation went well, the tremor of the hands gradually began to disappear, the mother saw the first effect already in the clinic, in the first week of setting up the device after the operation. Further, we will monitor its condition and the amount of improvements, but so far everything is very good!
Frequently asked questions
Can Parkinson's disease be cured completely?
There are currently no methods that fully cure Parkinson's disease. Treatment aims to reduce symptoms and slow the loss of independence. Which approach is right for you is decided by the doctor after examination.
When is brain surgery considered?
Surgery is usually discussed when medication helps less, its effect becomes unstable or significant side effects appear. The decision is made by the neurologist and neurosurgeon after reviewing your documents and examining you.
How long is the trip for surgery?
Under our partner clinic's program, the stay takes about 22 days: tests and consultations, surgery on day 2, discharge on day 7 and follow-up consultations. The exact plan depends on the clinic and the method.
What is deep brain stimulation?
It is an operation in which thin electrodes are placed in specific areas of the brain and a neurostimulator is placed under the skin. It sends weak impulses that help reduce movement symptoms. The stimulator is adjusted by a doctor.
How much does treatment of Parkinson's disease abroad cost?
The price depends on the method, the scope of examination, the country and the clinic. After reviewing your documents, we request programs from several clinics so you can compare prices. Experts Medical services are free for patients.
The information on this page is for reference only and is not medical advice. The treatment method is chosen by a specialist after reviewing the patient's medical situation.
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The information on the epxerts-medical.com website is provided for informational purposes only, is not a guide to action and should not be construed as a medical consultation or recommendations for treatment from the experts-medical.com site. All decisions on the choice of treatment methods and medical care should be made only by a specialised doctor after examining the patient's medical situation.
