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Can old spinal tuberculosis cause bone destruction?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

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.

Answered by Dr. Chandan Mohanty

Education:

M.Ch

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chandan Mohanty is a highly skilled Neurologist, Neurosurgeon, and Spine Surgeon with expertise in treating complex brain, spine, and nerve disorders. He specializes in minimally invasive spine surgeries, brain tumor removal, stroke management, and neurotrauma care. Known for his precision, advanced surgical techniques, and compassionate approach, Dr. Mohanty is committed to delivering comprehensive neurological care with a focus on improving patients' quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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?

Answered by Dr. Chandan Mohanty

Education:

M.Ch

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chandan Mohanty is a highly skilled Neurologist, Neurosurgeon, and Spine Surgeon with expertise in treating complex brain, spine, and nerve disorders. He specializes in minimally invasive spine surgeries, brain tumor removal, stroke management, and neurotrauma care. Known for his precision, advanced surgical techniques, and compassionate approach, Dr. Mohanty is committed to delivering comprehensive neurological care with a focus on improving patients' quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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 may sometimes benefit from back-strengthening exercises and physiotherapy.

Best wishes.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 31, 2023
Reviewed At December 16, 2025

Education:

M.Ch

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chandan Mohanty is a highly skilled Neurologist, Neurosurgeon, and Spine Surgeon with expertise in treating complex brain, spine, and nerve disorders. He specializes in minimally invasive spine surgeries, brain tumor removal, stroke management, and neurotrauma care. Known for his precision, advanced surgical techniques, and compassionate approach, Dr. Mohanty is committed to delivering comprehensive neurological care with a focus on improving patients' quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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

Education:

M.Ch

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chandan Mohanty is a highly skilled Neurologist, Neurosurgeon, and Spine Surgeon with expertise in treating complex brain, spine, and nerve disorders. He specializes in minimally invasive spine surgeries, brain tumor removal, stroke management, and neurotrauma care. Known for his precision, advanced surgical techniques, and compassionate approach, Dr. Mohanty is committed to delivering comprehensive neurological care with a focus on improving patients' quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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