A 48-year-old Indian resident from Abu Dhabi has regained mobility after undergoing a complex spine revision surgery at Medcare Hospital Sharjah. The procedure, carried out after a decade of persistent neck pain, involved correcting severe spinal cord compression caused by excess bone growth and scar tissue.
Long-standing pain
Ms. Nisha Dennis had lived with neck pain for more than ten years, with symptoms spreading into her left arm and upper back. Despite physiotherapy and medication, her condition worsened in recent months. She had previously undergone surgery to remove a damaged disc and fuse the C5 and C6 vertebrae, but new bone formation and scar tissue later developed around the C5-6 and C6-7 levels. Scans showed significant pressure on her spinal cord, creating a risk of paralysis.
“Each day was a battle. Walking, sleeping, even simple chores became impossible. I felt completely hopeless and depressed,” she said.
Complex revision surgery
The case was handled by Dr. Bobby Jose, Specialist Neurosurgeon at Medcare Hospital Sharjah. He said, “When she first came to me, she was in severe, radiating pain despite the maximum conservative treatments she had done.” He described the condition as “remarkably uncommon and intricate,” noting the challenges of performing a spinal revision ten years after the initial fusion.
Dr. Jose and his team removed the earlier implants, drilled around the spinal cord, cleared damaged bone and scar tissue, and inserted an expandable cage to stabilise the spine. “The procedure required an utmost degree of skill and carefulness,” he remarked.
The operation lasted about five hours and involved specialists from neurosurgery, anaesthesia, radiology, neurophysiology and physiotherapy. Ms. Nisha was able to walk within six hours and was discharged two days later.
Strong recovery
Commenting on the outcome, Dr. Jose said, “Her recovery has been remarkable. She was able to resume normal activities within days, and her long-term prognosis is excellent. The use of an expandable fusion cage instead of traditional grafting offers greater stability, and she is now fully active, pain-free, and doing extremely well.”
Ms. Nisha said, “Within the first few days, I could already feel the difference. The sharp pain that had been part of my life for so long had eased dramatically. I began walking confidently and felt stronger each day. The care I received made all the difference. This goes to show that even after a failed surgery and 10 years of intense pain, one can still get their life back with the right medical care.”
She added, “Today, I feel like I’ve been given my life back. I can walk comfortably, do my household chores, spend time with family, and even travel short distances without fear. Emotionally and socially, I feel alive again. It is a blessing.”
Spine care in UAE
Dr. Jose said advanced monitoring and experienced specialists are improving outcomes for complex spine procedures in the UAE. “With the right team and technology, patients can achieve outstanding outcomes,” he said.
Ms. Nisha encouraged others dealing with chronic pain to remain hopeful. “My message to anyone suffering from chronic spinal pain is: please do not lose hope. With the right doctor and proper care, healing is truly possible. Trust the medical process, follow your doctor’s advice, and keep your faith strong. I am deeply grateful for this second chance at a pain-free life.”
She continues to attend follow-ups and has returned to full activity.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
