Thane, May 22: A 60-year-old man who lived with worsening pain and mobility issues for nearly three decades had a spine issue since birth underwent a complex spine surgery at KIMS Hospitals, Thane, and was able to walk again within days.
What began as mild discomfort gradually progressed over the years into severe disability. The patient slowly lost strength and coordination—his hands and legs became stiff, his grip weakened significantly, and even simple daily activities became difficult. Despite repeated medical advice, he delayed treatment due to fear of surgery and uncertainty about outcomes, choosing instead to adapt to the pain.
In the last six months, his condition deteriorated sharply. He developed persistent vomiting and dizziness, which made eating difficult. Over time, he stopped consuming solid food and relied mostly on liquids, leading to further weakness and a significant decline in overall health.
On evaluation, Dr. Ujwal Yeole, Consultant Neurosurgeon, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, diagnosed him with atlantoaxial dislocation with basilar invagination—a rare and complex condition where instability at the junction of the skull and spine leads to compression of the brainstem and upper spinal cord. Given the severity of symptoms and the risk of further neurological damage, Dr. Yeole advised urgent surgical intervention.
The patient underwent a highly complex occipitocervical fusion surgery, during which the skull and upper cervical vertebrae were stabilised using screws and rods. The procedure required high precision due to the involvement of critical neural structures and the long-standing nature of the condition.
The surgery was performed by Dr. Ujwal Yeole, along with a multidisciplinary team. Despite the complexity, the outcome was encouraging.
“Patients often learn to live with chronic pain or neurological symptoms, assuming it is part of ageing, and delay timely treatment,” said Dr. Ujwal Yeole. “In reality, such symptoms can indicate serious underlying conditions. Even in advanced cases like this, appropriate surgical intervention can significantly reverse disability and improve quality of life.”
Within just 24 hours, the patient began showing signs of recovery—he was able to grip objects again, something he had struggled with for a long time. Over the next few days, his stiffness reduced, his balance improved, and he gradually regained the ability to walk without support.
One of the most significant milestones was his ability to eat solid food again after months, marking a major step in his recovery and return to normal life.
He made steady progress and was discharged within four days of the surgery, with substantial improvement in mobility and overall health.
Dr. Ujwal Yeole said the case highlights the importance of not ignoring persistent neurological symptoms. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can prevent years of disability and, in many cases, restore function even in long-standing conditions.