KATRA: A 75-year-old woman from Anantnag, who had been battling severe neck pain and progressive weakness in both arms, is walking again after undergoing a high-risk cervical spine surgery at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Katra.
For months, daily activities had become nearly impossible for the patient. Multiple medical centres reportedly declined to operate, fearing that a cervical intervention at her age could lead to paralysis. With options running out, her family travelled to Katra for a final expert opinion.
A detailed evaluation revealed severe compression of the cervical spinal cord, the reason behind her deteriorating condition. The surgery was led by Dr. Khushwant Singh, Consultant – Spine Surgery, with support from the neurosurgical team. Considering the critical nature of the case, doctors opted for cervical spinal decompression and stabilisation — a procedure that required meticulous planning due to her age and high risk.
The surgery was successful, and the woman showed gradual improvement post-operatively. In what her doctors described as a remarkable recovery, she walked into her first follow-up appointment without assistance, pain-free and confident — a stark contrast from the time she feared she may never walk again.
“Age should not automatically be a barrier to treatment,” said Dr. Khushwant Singh, stressing that with modern techniques and specialised expertise, even complicated spine disorders can be treated safely.
Dr. M.M. Mathavan, Facility Director, said cases like this reflect the confidence patients place in the hospital and the growing accessibility of advanced spine care in Jammu and Kashmir. “Earlier, many patients had to travel outside the region for treatment. Today, they receive the same level of care here in Katra,” he added.
The success also highlights the contribution of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in developing high-quality healthcare infrastructure in the region, enabling patients to access world-class treatment closer to home.
The woman is now back on her feet, walking independently — a recovery her family calls a second chance at life.
