A new minimally invasive procedure has helped patients coming to the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) get rid of chronic back pain within a matter of half-an-hour.
In a press release issued recently, the PGIMER said that Dr Babita Ghai, a consultant at the institute's pain clinic, has been carrying out the new procedure - Percutaneous hydrodisctectomy - for those suffering from refractory chronic back and leg pain. The procedure lasts for 30 minutes and patient can go home 3 to 4 hours after the procedure. "It is done without any surgical incision," said Dr Ghai.
The procedure is done under X-ray guidance. There is a very small wound that requires only a bandage and a week for recovery." Dr Ghai, who has performed two such procedures so far, said.
The last time Dr Ghai performed the procedure was on a young lady about a week ago. "Her body had not responded to medicines, physiotherapy, multiple-spine injections and exercises for nearly three years," Dr Ghai said. But after undergoing the procedure, the patient's health improved, though the long-term effect will be known in time. The patient had been supported financially.
The procedure was performed at the PGIMER for the first time about nine months ago. The patient was a young BSF soilder. "His body had not responded to medicines, exercises, and even multiple injections in the spine for 4 years. But, after the procedure, the response has been good," Dr Ghai said.
{{/usCountry}}The procedure was performed at the PGIMER for the first time about nine months ago. The patient was a young BSF soilder. "His body had not responded to medicines, exercises, and even multiple injections in the spine for 4 years. But, after the procedure, the response has been good," Dr Ghai said.
{{/usCountry}}The cost of equipment used for the procedure is Rs 50,000, which needs to be purchased by the patient or can be reimbursed for those who receive medical benefits from the government.