GB hospital cures rare case of spinal TB

Agartala: In a landmark medical breakthrough, doctors at Tripura’s GB Pant Hospital have successfully corrected a rare spinal deformity caused by tuberculosis in an 11-year-old boy, marking the first such surgery in the state’s history. Rupam Bhowmik had been battling a severe form of spinal tuberculosis that left him in constant pain, hunched over, and unable to walk or sleep properly. His condition, caused by a rare “knuckle deformity” in the spine, brought despair to his family before doctors intervened. Admitted to the hospital on March 28, Rupam was quickly diagnosed by pediatrician Dr. Sanjib Debbarma and placed on anti-tubercular therapy. As his condition required surgical correction, a specialized neurosurgery team led by Dr. Sidda Reddy performed a highly complex, seven-hour procedure known as Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO) on June 2. “This is the first successful PSO surgery conducted at our hospital,” said Dr. Reddy. “The child can now stand upright and sleep comfortably—something he hadn’t been able to do for months.” The surgery, which would have cost approximately Rs 8 lakh at a private facility, was conducted free of charge at GB Pant Hospital. Medical Superintendent Dr. Shankar Chakraborty credited the coordinated efforts of multiple departments and the rapid procurement of essential tools for making the surgery possible. The case gained state-level attention after being brought up during Tripura Chief Minister’s weekly public grievance meeting. Acting on his directive, the hospital ensured Rupam received full treatment at no cost. “This success story is a testament to the strength and potential of our public healthcare system,” Dr. Chakraborty said. “We want people to have confidence in the care available at GB Pant Hospital.” Rupam’s parents, visibly emotional, thanked the medical team for restoring their son's health and future. “We had lost all hope,” his father said. “But today, our child has a new life because of the doctors here.”