Name: Elchanan Zloczower
Israeli Institution: Kaplan Medical Center
North American Institution: Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
Fellowship Year: 2025-2026
Description:
Dr. Elchanan Zloczower is undertaking an advanced fellowship in Rhinology and Skull Base Surgery at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital—one of the leading U.S. centers for endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery. This specialized training is essential for acquiring advanced surgical, academic, and leadership expertise that is not currently available at the same depth in Israel, and it will directly strengthen patient care at Kaplan Medical Center and beyond.
At present, Kaplan Medical Center has only one dedicated rhinologist, significantly limiting the department’s capacity to manage complex sinonasal and skull base conditions. As demand for specialized rhinologic care continues to grow, there is an urgent need to expand local expertise. Training at a high-volume U.S. referral center will equip Dr. Zloczower with advanced skills in endoscopic skull base surgery, complex revision sinus procedures, and multidisciplinary management of challenging cases—capabilities that are critical to improving outcomes and reducing the need for patients to seek care abroad.
In addition to clinical excellence, this fellowship offers robust exposure to academic research and innovation. Dr. Zloczower will gain hands-on experience in clinical research and outcomes analysis, enabling him to contribute meaningfully to the international rhinology literature. He plans to establish long-term research collaborations between Thomas Jefferson University and Kaplan Medical Center, fostering ongoing academic exchange and elevating Israel’s presence in this highly specialized field.
This fellowship represents a significant personal and professional commitment, undertaken with a clear intention to return and serve. Upon returning to Israel, Dr. Zloczower will play a central role in expanding Kaplan’s rhinology unit, developing specialized treatment protocols, and increasing access to advanced care for patients with complex sinonasal and skull base disorders. He will also take an active role in mentoring and training ENT residents and young specialists, ensuring sustainable growth and excellence within the field.