TLV Medical Center Faces Investigation After Patient Suffers Chemical Injury During Nasal Surgery

Eynav Adib-Berar, a prominent Israeli entrepreneur and investor known from the TV show "The Sharks," is linked to a serious medical incident at TLV Medical Center in Tel Aviv. On a recent Friday, an 18-year-old woman undergoing nasal surgery at the center was accidentally exposed to a tampon soaked in a corrosive acid instead of the intended neutral substance. The acid, suspected to be trichloroacetic acid (TCA), caused burns to her nasal passages and respiratory damage, prompting emergency intervention.

The surgical team quickly recognized the error, halted the procedure within ten seconds, and stabilized the patient, who was then intubated and transferred to the intensive care unit at Ichilov Medical Center. Due to respiratory complications, she underwent a second surgery to treat damage to her trachea and remains sedated in intensive care. TLV Medical Center stated that a nurse mistakenly dipped the tampon in the wrong chemical and claimed the incident was reported to the Ministry of Health, which denied receiving such a report. Police have opened a negligence investigation.

Eynav Adib-Berar expressed her hope for the patient's full recovery and praised the medical team's swift and professional response. Adib-Berar, who transitioned from a successful business career in hygiene products and diapers to private healthcare, co-founded TLV Medical Center with her husband, Dr. Michael Berar. The center offers private medical services including plastic surgery, gynecology, and orthopedics. In 2018, she joined the investment panel on "The Sharks," bringing her extensive entrepreneurial experience.

The incident has drawn attention to the center amid ongoing investigations by the police and the Ministry of Health. Meanwhile, the patient's condition is reportedly improving. Earlier plans for TLV Medical Center's partial acquisition by Herzliya Medical Center fell through in 2025. Adib-Berar also engages in digital health ventures and investment roles in medical companies.