Pune Doctors Use D-Wave Technology To Save 38-Year-Old Woman From Respiratory & Limb Paralysis

Doctors at Manipal Hospital Baner removed a 7cm x 3cm spinal cord tumour from a 38-year-old woman, saving her from potential respiratory and limb paralysis. 

In a press statement on Saturday, the healthcare experts informed that the patient had presented with severe neck pain that severely impacted her daily life, accompanied by walking difficulties and limited mobility.

An MRI scan revealed the presence of ependymoma, a benign but potentially debilitating tumour, within the delicate spinal cord. Given the tumour's size and location, complete removal was critical to prevent future complications. However, the surgery carried significant risks, including postoperative neural deficits that could lead to quadriplegia or respiratory paralysis.

Recognising the case's criticality, the surgical team, led by Amit Dhakoji and Shrey Kumar Shah, employed advanced D-Wave technology and CUSA (Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator) to enhance the operation's success rate as the tumour, entangled with vital nerve fibres regulating limb and respiratory functions, required precise and cautious removal.

Dr Amit Dhakoji, Head of the Department and Consultant Neurosurgeon, stated, “This case highlights the tremendous progress in spinal surgery that has allowed us to treat such challenging conditions. Using a D-wave electrode for intraoperative monitoring provided real-time feedback on the patient’s motor performance, enabling us to adjust the technique and minimise the risk of damaging crucial nerve fibres. High-powered microscopes provided a clear, magnified view, allowing for a more targeted and controlled tumour removal.”

The multidisciplinary team, including neurosurgeons, anaesthetists, and technologists, played a vital role in the procedure's success. Anand Mote, Cluster Director at Manipal Hospital Baner, commented, “The tumor was successfully removed without postoperative complications. This demonstrates our commitment to utilising cutting-edge technologies and innovative surgical methods. By minimising risks with D-Wave technology and intraoperative monitoring, we ensured the best possible outcome for the patient.”

The patient made a full recovery, with complete motor function restored in all limbs and no postoperative impairments. Intraoperative monitoring played a crucial role in reducing the risk of brain injury, and the meticulous surgical techniques and teamwork ensured an optimal outcome, the statement from the hospital authorities noted.