At times when some hospitals and their doctors have drawn flak and widespread condemnation for the utter apathy and negligence on their part in treating patients, some stand true to the commitment and the humane values of medical profession. One such exemplary example is India Spinal Injuries Centre (ISIC), which has recently conducted free surgeries on two girls from the disadvantaged section giving new lease of life to both of them.
Nine-year-old girl Khushboo whose life was simply rendered miserable due to her tilted neck causing immense pain to her and her unbalanced posture, had never imagined getting rid of it. Despite being from an underprivileged family, her parents left no stone unturned to find a viable treatment option, however, their search ended only when they reached Indian Spinal Injuries Centre where doctors agreed treating her free of cost.
"When Khushboo arrived here, she was in much pain due to Torticollis, a condition in which the neck is tilted on one side. It's very painful, and could be caused by congenital factors or can be acquired due to a nerve or muscle injury. Hers was congenital in nature," said Dr Surbhit Rastogi, Consultant Orthopedics, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre.
The doctor said MRI of cervical spine was conducted and even ophthalmology opinion was taken before surgery to ensure safety of sight.
"Bipolar release, a surgical procedure for people with such conditions was conducted, and as a result, we achieved full correction of neck deformity. The patient was taught neck stretching exercise post-operation to maintain the correction," said Dr Rastogi.
Khushboo is now able to turn her head without pain and there is significant improvement in her body posture. Her functional abilities in performing daily tasks are also improving as well. She now feels normal like other children of her age and feels more accepted by her peers.
Dr HS Chhabra, Medical Director and Chief of Spine Services, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre said it is largely believed that corrective surgery for wry neck deformity in children older than four years have limited success and the efficacy of the treatment has been debatable, with the results being even worst when the operation is done after puberty and may lead to more complications. However, this case shows that patients with congenital muscular Torticollis can benefit from surgical treatment even in adulthood.
"The surgery restores the range of neck motion and resolves the head tilt; therefore it can improve the quality of life. This procedure is effective but should be performed by utmost care as there is danger of damaging the spinal nerves in the area." said Dr Chhabra.
In another case where ISIC provided treatment free of cost, a 14-year-old girl child from a Delhi orphanage, who had suffered neck and spine injuries due to a fall from first floor, can walk with support, read and write again after nine months post-surgery comprehensive rehabilitation at ISIC. Doctors said the girl had to be put on ventilator and had no movement in her upper and lower limbs. She has now rejoined her school and even got promoted to 9th standard this year.