Split Spinal Cord Malformation Treatment in India

John Ali, a 42-year-old construction foreman...

John Ali, a 42-year-old construction foreman and father of three, had always been active. Over the past two years, he developed a persistent, burning pain in his lower back and left leg, which he initially attributed to his physically demanding job. As the pain intensified, he began experiencing weakness in his left foot, causing a noticeable limp and making it difficult to navigate construction sites. He also had occasional numbness in his left thigh. After months of physiotherapy and pain management with little improvement, an MRI revealed a Type I Split Spinal Cord Malformation (diastematomyonyelia) in his lumbar spine, with a bony spur tethering the cord. His neurosurgeon, Dr. Evans, explained that the malformation was causing progressive nerve damage and recommended a surgical untethering procedure to release the spinal cord, prevent further neurological decline, and alleviate his pain. The surgery was complex but successful, involving a laminectomy and careful removal of the bony spur. Post-operatively, John experienced significant surgical site pain but was relieved to find the burning sensation was gone. After a 4-day hospital stay and 3 months of cautious rehabilitation, he regained most of the strength in his foot. While he still has some residual numbness and cannot return to heavy lifting, he is pain-free and can walk without a limp, allowing him to coach his son's soccer team. Emotionally, John journeyed from frustration and fear of losing his livelihood to profound gratitude for regained function and a renewed focus on family life over work.