Doctors at the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center experienced what is being dubbed a “monumental event” while in the operating room on Tuesday.

Naomi Elishuv, a professional violinist, treated surgeons to a private performance while undergoing her own brain surgery.

Formerly with the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra, the Israel Chamber Orchestra and the Givatayim Conservatorium of Music, Elishuv underwent deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery to suppress tremors which she has suffered from for the last 20 years.

“My greatest love was playing the violin, but unfortunately, until today, I had to make do with teaching. My tremor prevented me from playing professionally, and this was very difficult for a woman such as myself, who was used to playing her entire life,” Elishuv explained before entering the operation room.

Director of Functional Neurosurgery, Professor Yitzhak Fried, explained that the surgery aims at suppressing the part of the brain which controls the tremor symptoms.

“We implanted and positioned a brain pacemaker with electrodes in the area of the brain disturbance, which emits impulses to suppress the tremor that was disturbing Elishuv’s daily functioning,” he explained.

“The operation was performed under local anesthesia. In order to place the electrode in the optimal location, we wanted her active participation in real-time, so we asked Elishuv to play the violin during surgery…she did not feel pain,” Fried said.

Once in the brain, doctors performed electrical stimulation in the center of the disturbed area emitting the tremor signals and asked Elishuv to report any side effects.

“And, indeed, when we activated stimulation in the exact location, we found that the tremor disappeared and Elishuv continued to play Mozart – with great emotion, but without the tremor or side effects,” Fried remarked enthusiastically.

After being unable to take part in one of her greatest loves for 20 years, Elishuv is looking forward to her new, tremor free life.

“I could not continue any longer in my 20-year tremor state; I can’t wait to return to normal life,” Elishuv said excitedly. “I want to play, sign my name, and drink tea without spilling it, and I am only sorry that I just discovered this surgery.”

Professor Fried added, “This is the first time that I have operated on a patient who played an instrument during surgery, and I am so pleased that we had the opportunity to enjoy a private concert from a most talented and honorable musician. I hope that Elishuv will return to performing and that many more people will delight in her talents.”

Violinist playing during open brain surgery