Lung disease is the third leading cause of illness and death among adults worldwide. The Pulmonary Institute provides diagnosis and treatment for lung diseases, interpretation of imaging and lung function tests, and recommendations for ongoing treatment and monitoring.
The Institute’s staff uses advanced bronchoscopy technology for the diagnosis and treatment of lung disease.
Pulmonary Function Test
A pulmonary function test helps detect and diagnose obstructive respiratory diseases (such as asthma) and other conditions that cause breathing difficulties. Patients are referred for the test if
they have shortness of breath or other symptoms suggesting lung disease, or if they’re at higher risk of lung disease — for example, those working in environments with hazardous materials.
Physicians may also refer patients for the test ahead of surgery under general anesthesia.The test is simple and risk-free, but does require the patient's full cooperation with the technician performing it. Several health parameters are measured during the test, including lung volume, airflow, and diffusion capacity. Part of the test is performed at rest, while a separate 6- minute walking test measures the patient’s oxygen saturation under physical exertion (oximetry).
The full test takes about 30 minutes.
Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy is an invasive endoscopic procedure that allows direct observation of the airways, from the vocal cords through the trachea to the bronchi of the lungs. It’s used to diagnose malignant, infectious, or inflammatory lung diseases, and can also be used therapeutically — for example, to remove a foreign object, clear secretions, open or widen a narrowed or blocked bronchus, or insert a stent.
The procedure is performed using a bronchoscope: a thin, flexible tube fitted with a small camera or optical fibers, along with a channel through which instruments can be passed to collect samples from the bronchi or lungs. The bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth.
Non-Invasive Ventilation
This service is for patients who require ongoing respiratory support due to conditions such as sleep apnea, respiratory failure, chronic lung disease, and others. Staff at the Institute fit the patient with a respiratory mask and provide instructions for regular at-home use. Non-invasive ventilation improves sleep quality at night, as well as concentration and alertness during the day.
A Special Service for COVID-19 Recovery
Many people who have recovered from COVID-19 report experiencing post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), a condition that can significantly affect quality of life. The World Health Organization defines PASC as a group of symptoms affecting the respiratory system, nervous system (including cognitive function), cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, and ear, nose, and throat. About half of PASC patients experience respiratory effects, including shortness of breath, persistent cough, chronic fatigue, and sleep disturbances such as apnea.
Early diagnosis allows treatment to be directed at the specific issue involved.This service is offered at the Pulmonary Institute at Mayanei HaYeshua, under the direction of
Dr. Tiberiu Shulimzon, Director of the Invasive Pulmonology Unit at Sheba Medical Center. Dr. Shulimzon is one of the founders of the pulmonology profession in Israel and brings over 20 years of experience in the field. The service includes consultation, interpretation of lung function tests, imaging, and sleep studies, referral for further medical consultation, and ongoing treatment based on diagnosis.
The hospital is independent of the HMO, and members of all HMOs are accepted there.
Members of Meuhedet HMO and Maccabi are admitted to the clinic by presentation of a referral only or by payment according to the hospital's price list.
As part of the agreements with Clalit and Leumit HMOs, Forms 17 will be given to the outpatient clinics, or a payment will be made according to the hospital's price list.
