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Spinal Cord Aid Restores Hand Movement After Accident
4 Sep
Summary
- Spinal cord stimulation helped a 30-year-old regain hand movement.
- The patient had a severe spinal cord injury from an accident.
- Doctors expect further recovery over the next 1.5 years.
Doctors at MGM Healthcare in Chennai have successfully employed spinal cord stimulation to aid a 30-year-old auto driver from Vellore in regaining hand movement. The patient suffered a severe spinal cord injury a year ago in a road accident, resulting in paralysis of his legs and significantly limited hand function.
Following the accident, the patient was diagnosed with an ASIA Grade B spinal cord injury. A procedure was performed to implant electrodes near the spinal cord, delivering controlled electrical impulses to modulate spinal activity and promote the recovery of upper limb function. This targeted approach aimed to improve his impaired hand and arm capabilities.
Since the implantation, the patient has demonstrated gradual progress in hand muscle strength, achieving a one-grade improvement in distal hand power over six months. Medical professionals anticipate the neurological recovery process will continue for another eighteen months, requiring ongoing electrode programming and dedicated physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Consultants highlighted that the electrical stimulation helps modulate the spinal cord's activity, supporting the restoration of movement and function. The treatment plan emphasizes continuous adjustments to the electrode programming as the patient's neurological function improves, alongside a robust rehabilitation program.
