SRM Global Hospitals Performs Rare Dual Emergency Surgery, Saves Mother and Baby
Chennai: In a rare and complex medical achievement, doctors at SRM Global Hospitals successfully carried out a high-risk dual emergency surgery on a 32-week pregnant woman diagnosed with a severe spinal condition, saving both mother and child.
The patient had developed Cauda Equina Syndrome, a rare and life-threatening neurological emergency caused by a lumbar disc extrusion at the L4–L5 level. The condition led to compression of critical nerves controlling movement and bladder and bowel functions, leaving her unable to walk and resulting in loss of control over bodily functions.
Given the urgency, doctors performed an emergency Caesarean section to safely deliver the baby, followed immediately by a complex spine surgery to relieve nerve compression and prevent permanent paralysis. Following the procedure, the mother has regained her ability to walk, and the newborn remains stable.
The surgery was led by Dr. Yogesh Kumar, Senior Consultant – Spine Care, with support from a multidisciplinary team including Dr. R.K. Vidhyalakshmi (Obstetrics and Gynaecology), Dr. D. Abinaya (Clinical Haematology), Dr. Ashok C (Neonatology), and Dr. Shanmitha R (Anaesthesiology).
Cauda Equina Syndrome is a time-critical condition requiring intervention within hours to prevent irreversible nerve damage, which can lead to permanent paralysis and lifelong loss of bladder and bowel control.
The case was further complicated by multiple high-risk factors. The patient weighed approximately 130 kg and had underlying conditions including diabetes, hypertension, hypothyroidism, and antiphospholipid antibody (APLA) syndrome — a blood-clotting disorder that necessitates the use of anticoagulants, significantly increasing the risk of bleeding during surgery.
Despite these challenges, the multidisciplinary team meticulously planned and executed the dual procedures under strict safety protocols. Coordination across specialties ensured effective management of anaesthesia, bleeding risks, and post-operative care for both mother and child.
Speaking about the case, Dr. Yogesh Kumar said, “This was an extremely rare and complex situation involving advanced pregnancy combined with multiple comorbidities and a neurological emergency. The biggest challenge was performing two major surgeries requiring completely different patient positions. Managing bleeding risks due to anticoagulation and ensuring stability throughout the procedure required precise coordination and planning. The successful outcome reflects the strength of a multidisciplinary approach.”
Dr. P. Sathyanarayanan, President, added, “This case highlights the importance of teamwork in critical care. Each specialist played a vital role — from the obstetrician ensuring safe delivery, to the spine surgeon relieving nerve compression, the haematologist managing anticoagulation, the anaesthetist handling a complex airway, and the neonatal team caring for the newborn. Such coordinated efforts made this outcome possible.”
The case underscores the importance of timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary intervention in managing rare and high-risk medical emergencies.
