A 52-year-old woman from Kottarakkara, Kerala, who had been paralyzed for months due to a rare spinal condition, has regained her ability to walk following a successful surgery at Kimshealth Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. The woman was suffering from upper thoracic kyphoscoliosis, a spinal deformity that causes abnormal inward and lateral curvature, leading to paralysis in both legs.
Initially, the patient had delayed surgery due to concerns about the risks. Her condition was further complicated by neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerves and the skin. Over time, her spinal curvature worsened, leading to a loss of bladder and bowel control. As her quality of life deteriorated, surgery became the only viable option to restore mobility.
The surgery was performed by a team of doctors led by consultant Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon, Dr. Ranjith Unnikrishnan, who recommended Posterior Vertebral Column Resection (PVCR), a complex procedure designed to correct the spinal curvature and relieve pressure on the spinal cord. The surgery involved reconstructing the patient’s spine using titanium rods and cages to provide support and alignment.
After a 14-hour surgical procedure, the operation was deemed a success. Remarkably, within ten days of the surgery, the patient regained her ability to walk, an outcome that exceeded expectations.
The surgery was a collaborative effort, with other specialists contributing their expertise. Dr. Jacob John Theophilus, Dr. Ashwin C. Nair, Dr. Anoop Shivakumar, Dr. Pradeep Moni V. B., and Dr. Jerry John were all part of the team responsible for the successful procedure.
The patient’s recovery has been described as remarkable, and her newfound mobility stands as a testament to the skill and precision of the medical team at Kimshealth Hospital. This life-changing surgery offers hope to others who suffer from similar spinal deformities.
The success of the operation underscores the importance of timely intervention and specialized care in treating complex spinal conditions. This extraordinary recovery not only highlights the importance of advanced medical care but also offers renewed hope for patients with complex spinal conditions. The team at Kimshealth Hospital continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, transforming lives through their expertise and dedication.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)
