Infant Undergoes Metal-Free Spine Fixation Surgery at AIIMS: A Remarkable Feat

In a groundbreaking medical achievement, doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) have achieved an awe-inspiring milestone by performing metal-free spine fixation surgery on a six-month-old infant. Utilizing a bone graft donated by his mother, this specialized procedure has crowned him Asia's youngest patient to have undergone such a revolutionary treatment.

The infant, weighing 4.5 kg at birth and diagnosed with macrosomia, faced numerous challenges after delivery. The child required continuous oxygen support and experienced several episodes of aspiration pneumonia. The infant also struggled with respiratory distress and severely limited mobility in multiple limbs - namely the left upper and lower limbs and the right lower limb- with no movement in the right upper limb. Upon conducting a thorough examination, medical experts discovered an injury to the spinal cord and a dislocation of the cervical spine, also known as cervical spondyloptosis.

To address spinal cord and brachial plexus injuries, the medical team at AIIMS decided to undertake a metal-free spine fixation surgery, employing innovative techniques and cutting-edge technology. The procedure involved using advanced bioresorbable materials that gradually dissolve over time, eliminating the need for implant removal. These materials are specially designed to provide adequate stability to the spine while promoting natural bone healing and growth.

The surgery was performed by a team of highly skilled pediatric orthopedic surgeons, assisted by state-of-the-art robotic technology and guided by advanced imaging techniques. The precision and accuracy achieved through the combination of robotic assistance and advanced imaging played a crucial role in the success of the surgery.

The procedure resulted in a remarkable outcome, with the infant showing significant improvement in motor function and a reduction in pain and discomfort. The metal-free spine fixation not only addressed the existing injuries but also ensured optimal growth and development of the spine as the child continues to grow.

Dr. Deepak Gupta, professor of neurosurgery at AIIMS, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, "Metal-free spine fixation surgery is a relatively new approach in the field of orthopedics, especially when it comes to infants. Traditionally, metal implants such as screws and plates have been used to stabilize the spine. However, these implants can pose certain risks, including potential complications during growth and the need for additional surgeries to remove them in the future. This successful metal-free spine fixation surgery opens up new possibilities in pediatric orthopedics. It provides a safe and effective alternative to traditional metal implants, offering improved long-term outcomes for infants and reducing the need for additional surgeries."