Untreated Spinal Tuberculosis Causes Serious Disability: Man Regains Ability to Walk After Complex Surgery

Thane:A65-year-oldman fromNeral, who had been experiencing severe back pain and a gradually worsening spinal deformity for one year, has regained his ability to walk after undergoing a complex spine surgery atKIMS Hospitals, Thane. His case highlights how untreatedspinal tuberculosis (TB)can silently progress and lead to serious disability if not detected in time. The patient had been suffering from continuous back pain that slowly caused his spine to bend forward. Over time, he lost his appetite, experienced significant weight loss, and found it difficult to sit or stand for long periods. Walking became increasingly difficult, and in the last six months, he was unable to get out of bed without help. Despite visiting multiple doctors and taking pain medications, his symptoms continued to worsen, affecting his daily routine and overall quality of life. When he visited KIMS Hospitals, Thane,Dr. Amogh Zawar, Consultant Spine Surgeon, conducted a detailed evaluation. Imaging studies revealed a severely bent spine, destruction of one of the vertebral bones, and a possible collection near the spinal cord. MRI and CT scans strongly pointed toward spinal tuberculosis, a serious form of TB that affects the bones of the spine rather than the lungs. Because the disease had advanced significantly, corrective surgery was necessary to stabilize the spine and prevent the risk of paralysis.