Mumbai,June 29: A 60–year–old woman who had been struggling with progressive gait instability and weakness in her fine hand movements for nearly three years has regained hope following a complex spine surgery successfully performed at Apex Hospital in Borivali.
The patient had gradually developed difficulty in walking, poor balance, and weakening of her grip, significantly affecting her daily activities. Detailed clinical evaluation and MRI imaging revealed severe cervical spinal canal compromise caused by Ossified Posterior Longitudinal Ligament, a condition in which the spinal ligament hardens into bone, compressing the spinal cord and leading to progressive neurological deficits.
The patient underwent a multilevel cervical laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation under the expertise of Dr. Umang Sheth, Spine Surgeon at Apex Hospital, part of the Apex Group of Hospitals. The surgery was performed by the surgical team comprising Dr. Umang Sheth and Dr. Bhushan Hadole, with anaesthesia administered by Dr. Ria Shah. The procedure successfully relieved pressure on the spinal cord while stabilizing the cervical spine. The patient is now recovering well and is steadily regaining her balance and hand function through rehabilitation.
Ossified Posterior Longitudinal Ligament is an uncommon but potentially disabling condition. Delayed diagnosis can result in irreversible spinal cord damage. Timely surgical decompression helps arrest neurological deterioration and provides patients with the best opportunity for recovery,” said Dr. Umang Sheth.
He further added,
“The objective of surgery is not only to relieve spinal cord compression but also to restore stability to the spine. Early intervention, combined with structured rehabilitation, plays a vital role in improving long-term functional outcomes.”
According to spine specialists, degenerative cervical spine disorders are becoming increasingly common due to ageing, lifestyle factors, and improved diagnostic awareness. Persistent neck pain accompanied by imbalance, hand clumsiness, numbness, or weakness should never be ignored, as these symptoms may indicate spinal cord compression requiring urgent specialist evaluation.
With advanced surgical expertise, modern spinal instrumentation, and comprehensive rehabilitation services, Apex Hospital continues to offer cutting-edge treatment for complex spine disorders, enabling patients to regain mobility, independence, and an improved quality of life.