Lifeline Hospital Chennai Saves 21 year old paralysed Young Bengal Woman with Complex Tuberculosis 

Chennai, Tamil Nadu : A young woman from Bengal received a new lease of life thanks to a groundbreaking surgery performed at Lifeline Hospitals Chennai. 

The 21-year-old patient arrived at the hospital with severe symptoms, including disorientation, neck and back pain, and paralysis in both legs.

Prompt Diagnosis and Initial Intervention:

Doctors at Lifeline quickly diagnosed the patient with leptomeningeal meningitis, a rare condition causing inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Further investigation revealed obstructive hydrocephalus (excess fluid buildup in the brain) and spinal abscesses. The initial plan was to do multiple level laminectomy to drain pus.Instead, a multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, physicians, and intensivists collaborated to perform D6 to d8 laminectomy at the prominent pus level using infant feeding tube intraoperatively to drain debris and pus at all levels by giving multiple wash with saline. This innovative surgical procedure helped relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Additionally, an external ventricular drain (EVD) was placed to divert excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain.

Unveiling the Underlying Cause:

Doctors at Lifeline quickly diagnosed the patient with leptomeningeal meningitis, a rare condition causing inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Further investigation revealed obstructive hydrocephalus (excess fluid buildup in the brain) and spinal abscesses.A multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, physicians, and intensivists collaborated to perform a multi-level laminectomy, a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Additionally, an external ventricular drain (EVD) was placed to divert excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain.

Minimally Invasive Expertise Saves the Day:

Lifeline, recognized for its pioneering work in minimally invasive surgery, involved its laparoscopic team. Leveraging their extensive experience with scarless surgeries, they performed a combined procedure.

Innovation and Discovery:

A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt was placed to drain excess fluid from the brain’s ventricles into the abdomen. This innovative technique utilized a single laparoscopic port strategically placed within the patient’s navel, resulting in a virtually invisible scar. During the laparoscopic procedure, multiple peritoneal nodules were identified, pointing towards abdominal tuberculosis. A biopsy was obtained through the same laparoscopic port, confirming disseminated tuberculosis (severe systemic TB).

Multidisciplinary Teamwork Leads to Recovery:

Armed with a definitive diagnosis, the team promptly initiated anti-tuberculous treatment. This intervention led to a remarkable recovery within ten days. The patient regained mobility and was discharged with minimal scarring.

Importance of Nutrition

Following a complex surgery and battling a serious infection like tuberculosis, a patient’s body requires optimal nutrition to heal and rebuild strength. A well-balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals would be crucial for this young woman. The Nutrition department of Lifeline Hospitals implemented a comprehensive nutritional plan for the patient, to ensure she received the necessary nutrients to support her remarkable recovery.

Lifeline Hospital: A Beacon of Hope for Complex Cases:

This case exemplifies Lifeline Hospital Chennai’s dedication to exceptional patient care.By combining advanced technology, meticulous planning, and seamless collaboration between various specialties, the hospital successfully navigated a complex medical challenge. The young woman’s story serves as a testament to Lifeline’s commitment to minimally invasive techniques and a multidisciplinary approach, offering hope and exceptional outcomes even in the most intricate cases.

Lead Surgeons Dr. M. Aqib, MBBS, MS, M.Ch (Neuro Surgery) Neuro Surgeon, Brain & Spine Surgeon, along with Dr. Anirudh Rajkumar, MBBS, DNB (Surgery), FMAS, MRCS, FIBC (Bariatric), Advanced Robotic & Laparoscopic Obesity Surgeon participated and explained this surgery process.

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