Kolkata doctors have successfully restored mobility in a 61-year-old woman from Dhanbad who had been bedridden with paralysis of both lower limbs for nearly 10 months.
The patient, a known case of Ankylosing Spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory condition that causes the spine to become rigid and fragile, presented with a T10–T11 fracture with Anderson lesion, a highly unstable spinal injury affecting all three columns of the spine. Her condition had led to significant neurological compromise, with lower limb power reduced to 1–2/5, indicating minimal movement and severe weakness.
Given her prolonged paralysis, associated muscle wasting, and extended immobility, the chances of neurological recovery were considered extremely limited, making this a highly complex and high-risk case when she arrived at Manipal Hospital Salt Lake.
The team led by Dr. Saikat Sarkar, consultant – Spine Surgery, proceeded with a long segment of dorsolumbar stabilisation with instrumented fusion and decompression in February 2025. The procedure involved stabilising multiple levels of the spine using implants, fusing the affected vertebrae, and relieving pressure on the spinal cord to create optimal conditions for recovery.
Spinal injuries in patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis are inherently challenging due to the brittle, stiff nature of the spine. However, what made this case particularly rare was the 10-month delay in intervention, during which the patient remained completely bedridden, significantly reducing the likelihood of functional recovery.
Despite these odds, the patient showed gradual but steady neurological improvement following surgery and structured rehabilitation. Early signs of recovery were observed at the three-month mark. Over the next few months, her muscle strength improved significantly, and at her latest follow-up, she was able to walk with minimal support, with lower limb power improving to 4+/5 indicating near-normal strength.
Sharing his insights, Dr Sarkar, said, “Managing spinal fractures in Ankylosing Spondylitis is always technically demanding. However, a prolonged history of paralysis, especially over 10 months, makes neurological recovery highly uncertain due to chronic nerve compression, muscle wasting, and long-term immobility. Seeing the patient progress from complete paralysis to walking again is truly encouraging and highlights the combined impact of timely surgical intervention, rehabilitation, and patient resilience. We expect continued improvement, and with ongoing rehabilitation, the patient is likely to regain independent walking ability in the coming months.”
Dr. Amarjeet Singh, hospital director, added, “This was a very challenging case, especially because of the long delay in treatment and the patients condition. It required careful planning, skilled surgery, and continuous rehabilitation support. We are happy to see the patient regain mobility and improve steadily. This case reflects the importance of the right treatment approach and consistent follow-up care.”