Spine TB Treatment in Ahmedabad

When and how spine tuberculosis surgery is performed?

Surgery for spine tuberculosis (Pott’s disease) is considered in cases where there is:

1. Failure of medical treatment: If anti-tuberculosis medications (antibiotics) fail to control the infection or if there is a risk of neurological complications despite treatment.
2. Spinal instability: If the infection causes severe destruction of the vertebrae leading to spinal instability, which can result in deformity, compression of the spinal cord, or nerve roots.
3. Large abscesses: If there are large abscesses (collections of pus) that need to be drained to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
4. Progressive deformity: If the infection leads to kyphosis (forward curvature of the spine), which may progress and cause significant disability.
5. Failed conservative management: If conservative measures such as immobilization, medication, and physical therapy fail to alleviate symptoms or control the progression of the disease.

Surgery for spine tuberculosis may involve different procedures depending on the severity and location of the infection, as well as the presence of complications. Some common surgical techniques used in the management of spine tuberculosis include:

1. Decompression and debridement: The surgical removal of infected tissue, bone, and abscesses to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
2. Spinal fusion: The fusion of adjacent vertebrae using bone grafts, metal plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the spine and prevent further deformity.
3. Abscess drainage: The surgical drainage of abscesses to reduce pressure on the spinal cord or nerves and to remove infected fluid and tissue.
4. Kyphosis correction: Surgical correction of kyphosis (forward curvature of the spine) using techniques such as osteotomy (cutting and realigning the bones) or spinal instrumentation (metal implants) to restore spinal alignment.
5. Vertebrectomy: The surgical removal of one or more vertebrae affected by tuberculosis, followed by spinal fusion to stabilize the spine.

The timing of surgery for spine tuberculosis depends on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the extent of spinal involvement, the response to medical treatment, and the presence of complications. Surgery may be performed as soon as the diagnosis is made in severe cases or may be delayed until after a course of anti-tuberculosis medication in less urgent situations. The decision to undergo surgery and the choice of surgical technique should be made in consultation with a spine surgeon experienced in the management of spine tuberculosis.