Media Release

Mangaluru, Jul 24: In a remarkable display of medical excellence, a 13-year-old girl was successfully treated for a rare and complex spinal condition at A J Institute of Medical Sciences, setting a new benchmark in paediatric orthopaedic spine care in the region.

The child was diagnosed with Klippel-Feil Syndrome (KFS)—a rare condition in which the bones in the neck are fused. This led to a short, webbed neck, limited neck movement, uneven shoulders, and a scoliotic spine. Her physical growth was also affected, and she had been living with visible deformities for years.

After detailed tests and investigations, the team of orthopaedic surgeons led by Dr Sudeep Shetty and Dr Dheeraj Kumar, and paediatric specialists at A J Institute of Medical Sciences —discovered multiple abnormalities: fusion of the neck bones, an abnormal bone in the lower spine (hemivertebra), and a severely curved spine (scoliosis). Systemic conditions such as hypertension were also noted. She was diagnosed with Type III Klippel-Feil Syndrome (KFS)—the most severe form, often associated with other hidden health risks.

In a single, meticulously planned surgery, a multidisciplinary team comprising expert Ortho Spine surgeons (Dr Dheeraj Kumar, Dr Hashir Safwan, Dr Pawan) and anaesthetists (Dr T VTantry, Dr Preetham, Dr Nitu Renny) performed spinal correction from the upper to lower back, removed the abnormal bone, and corrected her shoulder deformity. The Surgery, which lasted for six to seven hours was carried out under continuous neuromonitoring to ensure spinal cord safety.

The child recovered without any complications and has already started her activities of daily living. Her journey from deformity to recovery stands as a testament to her courage and the exceptional expertise of the orthopaedic spine team at A J Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre.

This extraordinary success story not only transformed a young girl’s life but also marks a incredible milestone for A J Hospital—showcasing their capability in handling rare and high-risk paediatric spinal conditions.