Name: Eitan Keizman
Israeli Institution: Chaim Sheba Medical Center
North American Institution: Columbia University, New York, NY
Fellowship Year: 2025-2026
Description:
Dr. Eitan Keizman is pursuing an advanced pediatric cardiac surgery fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital (NYP), one of the world’s highest-volume and most innovative centers for pediatric heart surgery. This fellowship is essential to acquiring expertise in complex procedures and emerging technologies that are not currently available in Israel, yet are critical for treating the most severe congenital heart conditions in children.
NYP is a global leader in pediatric cardiac surgery, including heart transplantation and pioneering programs in total artificial hearts and xenotransplantation. Training in this environment provides unparalleled exposure to cutting-edge surgical techniques and rare, high-complexity cases. Under the mentorship of world-renowned surgeons such as Dr. Emile Bacha, Dr. Keizman will refine advanced surgical skills and deepen his understanding of complex congenital heart malformations.
The exceptionally high surgical volume at NYP—two to three pediatric cardiac surgeries performed daily—is a key factor in developing true surgical mastery. This intensive hands-on experience will significantly enhance Dr. Keizman’s ability to manage intricate cases, directly translating into improved outcomes for children upon his return to Israel.
Israel faces a critical shortage of pediatric cardiac surgeons, and Sheba Medical Center—Dr. Keizman’s home institution—is at the center of this national challenge. This fellowship requires significant personal and professional commitment, undertaken with a clear purpose: to return to Israel equipped with world-class expertise. Upon his return, Dr. Keizman will help elevate the national standard of pediatric cardiac care, mentor future surgeons, and contribute to the development of advanced programs for complex heart procedures.