HomeAnswersNeurosurgerytuberculosisMy spinal TB is cured, but worried about backbone damage. Help.

Does spinal tuberculosis after being cured affect the backbone?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At March 31, 2023
Reviewed AtDecember 21, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had spinal tuberculosis (Pott) 10 years ago and was treated with tablets. I recovered after six months. When we took a final MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to check, the doctor told us that the bones of T4 were destroyed up to seventy percent. He asked me to be careful and said no other medication was required further. Pain has been significantly reduced since that time. However, I have been fearful all the time about bone destruction, and I worry that my backbone will break at any time, affecting my stability.

Please advise.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I understand your concern.

It is difficult to answer without seeing your MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) films or reports. However, generally speaking, the backbone is unlikely to "break" if tuberculosis has completely healed. You can meet a neurosurgeon or spine surgeon if you are worried and they will see the old MRI and advise you of the necessary tests.

Best wishes.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Normally I will not have pain, and I can do most of the work myself. And there are no changes in my posture due to this. However, if I lift weights or ride a vehicle (bad roads), then I will have pain. And if I took rest for half to one hour the pain will be healed. But my doubt is whether should I undergo any surgery to support my backbone?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The decision for surgery has to be made based on the signs, symptoms, and a new MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). Patients sometimes may benefit from back-strengthening exercises and physiotherapy.

Best wishes.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Chandan Mohanty
Dr. Chandan Mohanty

Neurosurgery

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