Nanalal Walks Again After Rare Spinal Tumor Removed at PMCH

Udaipur: Doctors at the Orthopedics Department of Pacific Medical College & Hospital (PMCH) have successfully performed a complex spinal surgery on an 18-year-old patient, Nanalal, removing a rare tumor from his spinal cord. The surgery not only restored his ability to walk but also prevented permanent paralysis. The procedure was technically challenging, made even more delicate due to the patient’s young age.

Nanalal, a resident of Salumber, had been experiencing progressive weakness in his left leg and difficulty walking for the past three months. Despite consulting local doctors, his condition worsened. His family brought him to Pacific Hospital, where under the leadership of Dr. Subhash Sharma, Head of Orthopedics, Dr. Emmanuel Bhore conducted detailed examinations. An MRI revealed a tumor at the T6–T7 level of the thoracic spine, pressing on the nerves and putting him at risk of paralysis.

Dr. Bhore explained that urgent surgery was necessary. The surgical team, led by Dr. Sharma, performed a T6–T7 laminectomy, carefully reaching the inner spinal cord and removing the tumor. The tumor was pressing on nerves and extending into the foraminal region, which required meticulous separation. To ensure spinal stability after tumor removal, T6–T8 pedicle screw fixation was performed to reinforce the vertebrae.

The surgery team included Dr. Emmanuel Bhore, Dr. Mohit, Dr. Ruchit Suthar, Dr. Pulkit, with anesthesia support from Dr. Prakash Audichya, Dr. Ravindra Singh, and Dr. Arvind. OT in-charges Subhash Sharma, Manna Lal, and Nagesh also contributed to the successful procedure.

Dr. Bhore noted that intradural extramedullary tumors are extremely rare, occurring in just 0.3–0.4 cases per 100,000 individuals annually. They typically affect people aged 40–60, making Nanalal’s case at 18 years exceptionally uncommon.

Following the surgery, Nanalal has made a complete neurological recovery. He can now walk independently and has been fully relieved of pain and weakness.

Rahul Agrawal, Chairman of PMCH, stated that the success of this surgery reflects the hospital’s adoption of advanced medical technologies combined with the expertise of its doctors. He added, “Treating such a rare spinal tumor in an 18-year-old was highly challenging, but our spine surgical team accomplished it with precision. PMCH continues to set new benchmarks in managing complex cases, ensuring the people of Mewar and nearby regions have access to world-class treatment close to home.”