Learn about Diastematomyelia Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Diastematomyelia and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Diastematomyelia

Diastematomyelia is a complex neurosurgical procedure performed to correct a rare congenital spinal cord abnormality where the spinal cord is split into two halves by a bony, cartilaginous, or fibrous septum. This condition, often present from birth, can cause progressive neurological deficits, pain, and spinal deformities like scoliosis. The surgery involves a delicate laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebrae) to access the spinal canal, followed by the meticulous removal of the dividing septum to untether and reunify the spinal cord. The primary goals are to relieve compression on the spinal cord, prevent further neurological deterioration, and stabilize the spine. This highly specialized procedure requires advanced imaging and microsurgical techniques to ensure safety and maximize functional outcomes for the patient.

Key Highlights

    Addresses the root cause of spinal cord tethering and compression.Aims to halt the progression of neurological symptoms like weakness, numbness, or pain.Can prevent worsening of associated spinal deformities such as scoliosis.Performed using advanced microsurgical and intraoperative monitoring techniques for precision.Offers the potential for improved neurological function and quality of life.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Progressive neurological deficits, including leg weakness, muscle atrophy, or sensory loss.
  • Intractable back or leg pain directly attributable to the diastematomyelia.
  • Clinical or radiological evidence of a tethered spinal cord.
  • Worsening scoliosis or other spinal deformity linked to the cord abnormality.
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction (neurogenic bladder/bowel) caused by cord involvement.
  • Preventive surgery in a child with a known septum to avoid future neurological damage.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive neurological examination to document baseline function.
  • Advanced spinal imaging (MRI, CT myelogram) to precisely map the septum and anatomy.
  • Pre-operative counseling with the neurosurgeon to discuss goals, risks, and expectations.
  • Routine pre-surgical tests: blood work, ECG, and chest X-ray as needed.
  • Fasting for 6-8 hours before the surgery as instructed.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) under doctor's guidance.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which may require additional treatment.
  • Injury to the spinal cord or nerve roots, potentially leading to worsened neurological function.
  • Formation of scar tissue (arachnoiditis) which could re-tether the cord.
  • Incomplete removal of the septum or recurrence of symptoms.
  • Risks associated with spinal instrumentation if fusion is required for stability.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial hospital stay for monitoring neurological status and pain management.
  • Mobilization with assistance, often starting within 1-2 days post-surgery.
  • Wound care instructions to keep the incision site clean and dry.
  • Activity restrictions: avoiding heavy lifting, bending, or twisting for several weeks.
  • Physical therapy to regain strength, mobility, and proper body mechanics.
  • Regular follow-up appointments for neurological assessment and imaging to monitor healing.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-7 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering diastematomyelia in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for diastematomyelia compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 2,719 – USD 6,526 5-7 days ~ 6-12 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 20,131 – USD 48,315 5-7 days ~ 6-12 weeks Know More

Top hospitals for Diastematomyelia in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated neurosurgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing diastematomyelia.

Cytecare Hospital

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon48 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Siliguri

  • IconSiliguri, India
  • Icon30 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Salt Lake

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon129 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar

  • IconBhubaneshwar, India
  • Icon55 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Dhakuria

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon200 Doctors

Miot Hospital Chennai

  • IconChennai, India
  • Icon250 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad

  • IconGhaziabad, India
  • Icon43 Doctors

SIMS Hospital Vadapalani

  • IconChennai, India
  • Icon71 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon145 Doctors

Medanta The Medicity

  • IconGurgaon, India
  • Icon900 Doctors

Nanavati Max Hospital

  • IconMumbai, India
  • Icon187 Doctors

Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar

  • IconHyderabad, India
  • Icon67 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

At my age, you worry about...

At my age, you worry about being a bother. Dr. Narayanamurthy never made me feel that way. He explained my medication changes slowly, and his manner was very calming. The clinic at MGM was busy, but he took his time.

Neurosurgeons for Diastematomyelia

Explore experienced neurosurgeons who regularly perform diastematomyelia and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Dibanath Chakraborthy
  • 30 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

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Dr. Kiran S Khanapure
  • 27 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

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Dr. Nandish H S
  • 12 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

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Dr. Sharan Srinivasan
  • 26 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

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Dr. Veekshith Shetty
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

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Dr. Pravin Tukaram Survashe
  • 18 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kharadi

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Dr. Sunil Bundel
  • 17 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
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02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kharadi

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Dr. Ninad Patil
  • 12 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kharadi

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Speaks: English, Hindi
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MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jayanagar

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Dr. Kr Suresh Bapu
  • 42 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi, Tamil

MediFyr Plus SIMS Hospital Vadapalani

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Dr. Vijaysankaran
  • 31 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi, Tamil

MediFyr Plus SIMS Hospital Vadapalani

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Dr. Vishwaraj Ratha
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi, Tamil

MediFyr Plus SIMS Hospital Vadapalani

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Dr. R Sunil Kapilavayi
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi, Tamil

MediFyr Plus SIMS Hospital Vadapalani

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Dr. Digant Kamdar
  • 16 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Siliguri

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Dr. Anurup Saha
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Siliguri

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Dr. Manish Ganesh Pai
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Hebbal

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Dr. Robin H Gupta
  • 12 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Hebbal

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Dr. Amit Jaiswal
  • 18 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
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MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar

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Dr. Sreedhar Vuyyuru
  • 15 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
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MediFyr Plus Kamineni Hospital Vijayawada

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Dr. Deepak Kumar Parida
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
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MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar

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