Name: Uri Hadelsberg
Israeli Institution: Hadassah University Hospitals
North American Institution: University of Miami, Miami, FL
Fellowship Year: 2025-2026
Description:
Dr. Uri Hadelsberg is undertaking a highly specialized U.S. fellowship at the University of Miami to train in advanced endoscopic and awake spine surgery—innovative techniques that are currently severely underdeveloped and largely unavailable in Israel.
The University of Miami is a global pioneer in awake spine surgery and a leading center for complex endoscopic spine procedures. Training at this institution provides a unique opportunity to learn techniques that allow spine surgery to be performed safely on frail and elderly patients with significant medical comorbidities—patients who are often not candidates for traditional surgery. This approach dramatically reduces anesthesia-related risks and shortens recovery times.
In addition, the fellowship offers hands-on training in cutting-edge endoscopic spine surgery, which uses very small incisions and minimally invasive approaches. These techniques significantly reduce postoperative pain, complications, and hospitalization, enabling faster rehabilitation and better outcomes. At present, neither awake spine surgery nor advanced endoscopic spine surgery is routinely performed in Israel.
The University of Miami’s exceptionally high surgical volume is essential for developing true surgical mastery. Exposure to a large number of complex cases allows Dr. Hadelsberg to gain the depth of experience and technical confidence required to safely introduce these procedures into clinical practice.
This fellowship represents a substantial personal and professional commitment, requiring extended training abroad in order to bring transformative skills back home. Upon returning to Israel, Dr. Hadelsberg will be uniquely positioned to introduce these advanced spine surgery techniques, expand treatment options for high-risk patients, and significantly improve recovery and quality of life for thousands of individuals.