A ray of hope for cervical spine patients

For the first time, a minimally-invasive microscopic surgery has been introduced in Pakistan

KARACHI: As Pakistan sees a surge in diseases of the neck and spinal cord, largely attributed to spending too many hours hunched over one’s computer or smartphone, a new, minimally-invasive procedure brings a ray of hope for patients and doctors alike.

According to doctors, safe microscopic surgery can effectively repair the affected spinal cord and the cervical vertebrae to give relief to patients. During the procedure, surgeons will use a microscope and microsurgical tools to remove a portion of a damaged disc in the cervical spine (neck).



Doctors say that cervical spines are most affected by the continuous use of mobile phones or video games, due to which people put a lot of undue strain on their necks. As a result, headaches and cervical pain are also increasing among children and teenagers.

Providing details about the new microscopic procedure, renowned spinal cord surgeon from Karachi Dr Athar Muneeruddin Siddiqui, who runs his own clinic in the city, told The Express Tribune that continuous research in the field of medicine has enabled the technique of repairing an affected cervix by removing part of the damaged disc.

“A cervical micro-discectomy is a minimally-invasive surgery, which is performed with advanced techniques that minimise injury to the body, leave less scarring, and allow for a quicker recovery,” he said. “With its introduction in Pakistan, patients will now be able to undergo a safe method of treatment at par with international standards.”

Besides repairing the damaged cervix, the procedure will also enable doctors to monitor the narrow veins of the cervix and the spinal cord. When there is a gap in the cervical spine or an injury, patients experience severe pain in their shoulders and hands. If not treated on time, the grip strength of the hand gradually becomes weak, while pain in the affected areas also increases.

“The latest technique will allow surgeons to dilate and open the narrow veins originating from cervical spines, which will greatly minimise pain and improve patients’ quality of life,” Dr Siddiqui explained.

He said that changes in the cervical spine and the spinal cord naturally occur with age, adding that the cord is responsible for maintaining the entire balance of the human body.

“If there is any pain or problem with the spinal cord, a surgeon should be immediately consulted for examining the imbalance and pain in the spinal cord,” he said.

He further said that a growing number of patients are experiencing cervical spondylosis, which refers to age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal disks in a person’s neck. As the discs dehydrate and shrink, signs of osteoarthritis develop, including bony projections along the edges of bones (bone spurs).

Cervical spondylosis is very common and worsens with age. More than 85 per cent of people, older than the age of 60, are affected by cervical spondylosis. Most people experience no symptoms from these problems. When symptoms do occur, nonsurgical treatments are often effective.

“Apart from age, cervical spondylosis can happen because of occupation - particularly those jobs that require lifting of heavyweights - neck injuries, genetic factors and smoking,” said Dr Siddiqui.



He also shared that even though there is a surge in the spinal cord and neck-related problems among people, at present, there are only five spinal cord surgeons in Pakistan.

“Since there is a surge in cases, there is a need for more people to specialise in this field,” he concluded. 

Published in The Express Tribune, October 4^th, 2019.