A 27-YEAR-OLD WOMAN’S VICTORY OVER SPINAL TUBERCULOSIS
Back pain is common, but for this 27-year-old young woman, it turned out to be something far more serious than expected. For four months, she suffered from increasing back and leg pain. The pain was constant, radiating down both her legs, and gradually began to affect her ability to walk and perform daily tasks. Weakness in both hips added to her struggle. She sought treatment elsewhere and was started on anti-tubercular therapy (ATT), but her condition did not improve.
Desperate for relief, she came to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, where she was seen by Dr. Shankar Acharya, one of India’s leading spine surgeons and Chairman of the Department of Spine Surgery.
Diagnosis: Spinal Tuberculosis with Nerve Involvement
After a detailed assessment, she was diagnosed with Spondylodiscitis at the L2-L3 level, a form of spinal tuberculosis. The infection had led to the collapse of one of her vertebrae and weakness in her hip muscles. Advanced tests confirmed TB, but importantly, there was no drug resistance, meaning treatment could proceed effectively.
She showed signs of:
- Painful and restricted lower back movement
- Weakness in hip and leg muscles
- Reduced sensation around the L2-L3 spinal nerve region
Life-Changing Surgery
To stop the infection and restore spine stability, Dr. Shankar Acharya performed complex spinal surgery on January 7, 2025. The procedure included:
- Debridement (removal of the infected area)
- Biopsy
- Bone grafting from the iliac crest
- Posterior instrumentation with modern spinal implants to stabilize her spine
The surgery was done under general anesthesia and was a success. The infection was controlled, and the structure of her spine was rebuilt.
Recovery and Progress
Soon after the surgery, her pain reduced significantly. With the help of a brace, she was able to sit and start walking again. By the time she was discharged, she was stable, active, and on the path to full recovery.
A Story of Strength and Expert Care
This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and expert treatment for spinal TB. Under the guidance of Dr. Shankar Acharya, this young woman received not just advanced medical care, but also the chance to live pain-free again. Her strength and trust in the treatment journey made all the difference.