In a significant medical breakthrough, a 52-year-old woman suffering from lumbar canal stenosis, a debilitating condition causing narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back, has been successfully treated at KIMSHEALTH, Thiruvananthapuram. The medical team at KIMSHEALTH performed a pioneering full endoscopic spine surgery, marking the first such procedure in Kerala.

The patient, experiencing persistent lower back pain accompanied by weakness in the legs, difficulty in walking, and sciatica, underwent the minimally invasive procedure due to severe lumbar canal stenosis with listhesis—a condition where the narrowed spinal canal compresses the spinal cord and nerves, leading to an unstable spine. Previous back surgery had provided only temporary relief, necessitating immediate intervention to address the escalating symptoms.

The advanced full endoscopic spine surgery, conducted in two stages over a five-hour period, involved precise removal of the narrowed spinal segment and the insertion of an artificial expandable implant to restore optimal spinal height. Remarkably, the procedure was performed through incisions less than 1 cm in length, minimizing collateral muscle damage and expediting post-operative recovery.

Dr. Ajith R, Senior Consultant at KIMSHEALTH's Department of Neurosurgery, emphasized the critical nature of the intervention, highlighting the potential consequences of leaving the condition untreated. He explained that without timely treatment, the patient faced the risk of permanent leg weakness and eventual confinement to bed.

Post-surgery, the patient exhibited remarkable improvement, being able to walk the day after the procedure and discharged from the hospital within three days. The surgical team, led by Dr. Ajith R, included consultants from KIMSHEALTH's Department of Neurosurgery, Dr. Abu Madan, Dr. Navas NS, and Dr. Bobby Iype, along with Dr. Susanth B from the Department of Neuroanesthesia.

The success of this groundbreaking procedure underscores the effectiveness of full endoscopic spine surgery in treating complex spinal conditions, offering patients renewed hope and improved quality of life. As medical advancements continue to push boundaries, KIMSHEALTH's achievement signifies a significant milestone in spinal healthcare delivery in Kerala.