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.

“This is one of the finest success stories and a first of its kind in the country,” said Dr. Ranjith Unnikrishnan. “Over the years, he was unable to move his limbs. Despite trying non-surgical measures like belts and braces, he couldn’t hold his neck due to weak muscle control. Ultimately, surgery emerged as the only viable option. After careful consideration, he decided to undergo the procedure. In August, we performed the posterior scoliosis correction surgery”, the doctor added.

He further said that it was almost a 14-hour long surgery which the patient had undergone very bravely. The medical team planned to complete the entire procedure in a single stage as he could not go for more Anesthesia. Post-operative he was on ventilator support for some days. Now, he is able to sit upright without assistance and is planning to return to his home country to pursue his master’s degree.

Mohamad Raishan Ahmed shared his experience, “I experienced some shoulder pain about a month after the surgery. However, thanks to physiotherapy and acute therapy, the pain has significantly reduced. I can now sit independently without any support and maintain my balance. I am able to move my limbs freely. I am grateful to the medical team at KIMSHEALTH. The surgery has enabled me to move my neck freely up and down.”

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