Surgery for Spinal Arteriovenous Malformation Treatment in India

Vikram Singh, a 58-year-old retired school...

Vikram Singh, a 58-year-old retired school principal from Chandigarh, had always been active, enjoying morning walks and gardening. Over six months, he developed a persistent, burning pain in his mid-back that gradually worsened. It was accompanied by a strange, creeping numbness and weakness in his legs, making it difficult to stand for long periods. His local doctor initially treated him for a muscle strain, but when he began stumbling and lost bladder control, his family rushed him to a major hospital. An MRI revealed a spinal arteriovenous malformation (AVM) compressing his thoracic cord. The neurosurgeon, Dr. Sharma, explained that the tangled blood vessels were stealing blood flow and putting dangerous pressure on his spinal cord. Without surgery to disconnect the malformation, he risked permanent paralysis. Vikram was terrified; the thought of surgery on his spine filled him with dread, and he worried about being a burden to his family. The microsurgery was long and complex, but successful. Post-op, in the ICU, he was overwhelmed with relief when he could wiggle his toes on command. Recovery was a slow, grueling process of rehabilitation. He had to relearn to walk with support, battling frustration and pain. A year later, Vikram walks with a cane, has regained bladder control, and manages residual numbness with medication. The emotional journey was from fear and a loss of dignity to immense gratitude and a redefined resilience. He volunteers at a spinal injury support group, finding purpose in sharing his story.