Patient Name : Mr. Jodh
Age : 41 years
Introduction
Spinal trauma, particularly involving the cervical (neck) region, requires immediate and precise surgical intervention to prevent permanent disability. At The Spine Doctor in Bavdhan, we specialize in complex spinal reconstructions. This case study details the successful recovery of a patient treated by Dr. Sangram Rajale, a leading Spine Surgeon in Pune, following a catastrophic C5 vertebral fracture.
Patient History & Presentation
A 41-year-old male was admitted following a high-velocity injury (fall from the 3rd floor).
- Chief Complaints: Excruciating neck pain, inability to lift arms (Shoulder power 0/5), and tingling in the left upper limb.
- Neurological Status: The patient exhibited signs of Cervical Myelopathy and Radiculopathy, with significant motor weakness due to cord compression.
Diagnosis & Radiology Findings
Precise imaging is the cornerstone of effective spine surgery.
- MRI Findings: Comminuted fracture of the C5 vertebral body with retropulsion (bone fragments pushed into the spinal canal).
- Cord Contusion: Edema (swelling) was noted at the C4-C5 level, indicating direct injury to the spinal cord.
- Diagnosis: C5 Burst Fracture with Cord Compression.
Surgical Procedure: C5 Corpectomy
To address the “burst” nature of the fracture, a simple fusion was insufficient. Dr. Rajale performed a C5 Corpectomy.
The Procedure Steps:
- Anterior Approach: Accessing the spine from the front to safely reach the vertebral body without disturbing the spinal cord.
- Corpectomy: The fractured C5 vertebral body was completely removed to decompress the spinal cord.
- Discectomy: The discs above (C4-C5) and below (C5-C6) were removed.
- Reconstruction: An Expandable Titanium Cage (GESCO) was inserted to replace the removed bone, restore height, and correct alignment.
Common Questions (People Also Ask):
- What is the difference between discectomy and corpectomy? A discectomy removes the disc; a corpectomy removes the entire vertebral body.
- Is paralysis reversible after spine surgery? If decompression is done early, as in this case, significant neurological recovery is possible.
Post-Operative Recovery
The recovery trajectory for this patient was excellent:
- Immediate Post-Op: Stabilization of vitals and pain control.
- Neurological Return: By discharge, shoulder abduction power improved from 0/5 (Paralysis) to 4/5 (Functional strength).
- Mobility: The patient was walking independently with a cervical collar upon discharge.
Long-Term Outcome
Patients undergoing Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF) with Dr. Rajale can expect:
- Structural Stability: The titanium cage integrates with the bone over 3–6 months.
- Pain Resolution: Elimination of radicular pain and tingling.
Return to Life: With physiotherapy, patients often return to near-normal daily activities.
Why Surgery Was Necessary
In cases of retropulsed bone fragments compressing the cord, conservative management (rest/bracing) is dangerous and can lead to permanent quadriplegia. Surgery was essential to:
- Decompress the spinal cord.
- Stabilize the mechanical column of the neck.
- Prevent kyphotic deformity (hunchback of the neck).
About Dr. Sangram Rajale
Dr. Sangram Rajale is an expert Spine Surgeon in Pune, known for his proficiency in both open complex trauma surgeries and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MIS). His clinic in Bavdhan serves patients from Baner, Kothrud, Hinjewadi, and beyond, providing top-tier care for sciatica, spondylosis, and spine fractures.
FAQs
A: It is very serious as it controls the diaphragm (breathing) and shoulder movements. Immediate care is vital.
A: With an experienced surgeon, the success rate for stability and decompression is very high (over 90%).
A: Dr. Sangram Rajale at The Spine Doctor, Bavdhan, is highly rated for trauma and reconstructive spine surgery.