KIMSHEALTH Doctors perform posterior scoliosis correction surgery on 23-year-old Maldivian

Thiruvananthapuram: Mohamad Raishan Ahmed, son of Ahmed Muhamad and Aminath Ibrahim, was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) type 2, a rare hereditary genetic condition that weakens muscles throughout the body due to improperly functioning nerve cells in the spinal cord and brainstem. Approximately one in 6,000 babies is born with SMA, which is a leading cause of infant mortality.

Born with this rare spinal defect, this Maldivian patient was not expected to survive past infancy. Over the years, his condition progressed to neuromuscular scoliosis, being bedridden all his life. He could only move his hands and his sole desire was to sit upright without falling. Despite these challenges, Raishan is now 23 and a leading advocate for the rights of people with disabilities in the Maldives.

While actively pursuing his studies and preparing for a PhD, Raishan's determination to sit upright led him to KIMSHEALTH Trivandrum to meet Dr Ranjith Unnikrishnan, a Consultant Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon.

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A posterior scoliosis correction surgery was done by implanting screws and rods from his skull to the hips. The surgery which lasted for about 14 hours was highly challenging and risky taking into consideration the multiple health issues of the patient. Post surgery the patient had to undergo physiotherapy and his lifelong wish to sit straight without falling has come true. He now has a 'strong and straight' spine.