When a 50-year-old woman from Hubballi arrived bedridden after progressive lower-limb paralysis, initial alarms pointed toward malignancy. Under the skilled hands of Dr. Mustafa Chandshah, Consultant Neurosurgeon in Hubli, Karnataka, thorough evaluation revealed the true culprit: tuberculosis of the thoracic spine .
Case Overview
Patient Profile: 50-year-old female, Hubballi, Karnataka
Symptoms: Gradual weakness of both lower limbs progressing to complete paralysis
Initial Misdiagnosis: Treated elsewhere for suspected spinal malignancy
Correct Diagnosis: Infectious destruction of vertebral bodies due to spinal tuberculosis
Surgical Intervention
In a 3-hour decompression and posterior spinal fixation procedure, Dr. Chandshah halted disease progression and stabilized the spine:
Posterior Approach: Complete removal of infected tissue.
Spinal Decompression: Relieving pressure on the spinal cord.
Posterior Instrumentation: Titanium rods and screws to restore alignment and stability.
Postoperative course was uneventful, reflecting meticulous surgical planning and execution.Patient is on antitubercular medications.
Remarkable Recovery
Rehabilitation Timeline: Over four months, the patient regained full motor power and independent ambulation .
Outcome: Returned to all routine activities, highlighting the efficacy of early diagnosis and expert neurosurgical care.
Key Takeaways for Spinal Health
Early Recognition: Unexplained back pain or weakness warrants MRI/CT to rule out spinal TB—especially in regions with prevalent tuberculosis.
Nutrition & Hygiene: A high-protein diet, strict personal hygiene, and avoiding close contact with active TB patients can help prevent spinal tuberculosis.
Specialist Referral: Persistent neurological symptoms should prompt evaluation by a Consultant Neurosurgeon to avoid delays in life-saving interventions.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you or a loved one is experiencing back pain, neurological symptoms, or suspect spinal infection, don’t wait. Dr. Mustafa Chandshah, Consultant Neurosurgeon in Hubli, Karnataka, specializes in complex spinal case management—from accurate diagnosis to minimally invasive and open surgical techniques.