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Pune, 3rd May 2025:
In a remarkable medical milestone, Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune has successfully performed Maharashtra’s first Phrenic Nerve Neuromodulation surgery, giving a 58-year-old man a second chance at independent breathing after a devastating spinal cord injury.
A Life-Altering Accident
Sanjay Yashwant Pai suffered a severe injury on July 25, 2024, after a fall in his bathroom resulted in a high cervical spine (C3-C4) fracture. Despite undergoing multiple spinal surgeries at another hospital-including C4 corpectomy, C3-C4 discectomy, and spinal fusion-Pai remained quadriplegic and dependent on a mechanical ventilator for six months.
A Race Against Time and Complications
Transferred to Ruby Hall Clinic on September 19, 2024, Pai faced mounting risks from prolonged ventilator use, such as ventilator-associated pneumonia, stress ulcers, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. The Neuro Trauma Unit, led by Intensivist Dr. Kapil Zirpe, recognized the urgent need for advanced intervention.
Pioneering Surgery Offers New Hope
The medical team, including Dr. Manish Baldia (Consultant Functional Neurosurgeon), Dr. Richa Singh, Dr. Zirpe, and Dr. Purvez Grant, opted for the rare Phrenic Nerve Neuromodulation surgery. This complex procedure involves placing a small device near the phrenic nerve, which controls the diaphragm-the muscle essential for breathing. The device stimulates the diaphragm externally, allowing gradual ventilator weaning.
“Despite all the extensive weaning efforts, we were unable to wean him, but soon after phrenic nerve stimulation surgery, we noticed a remarkable improvement in his breathing,” said Dr. Baldia. “We programmed the stimulator according to the patient’s physiological response, gradually enhancing diaphragm strength without inducing fatigue.”
A Remarkable Recovery
Following the surgery, Pai’s condition improved steadily. His dependence on the ventilator was reduced, and by April 28, 2025, he was moved to the general ward for ongoing rehabilitation.
Dr. Purvez Grant, Chief Cardiologist and Chairman of Ruby Hall Clinic, commented, “Successfully performing Maharashtra’s first Phrenic Nerve Neuromodulation surgery showcases our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in medical care and giving our patients a second chance at life.”
The success of this surgery offers renewed hope for patients with severe spinal cord injuries and long-term ventilator dependence, marking a new chapter in advanced neurocritical care in India.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information reported by Punekar News and statements from Ruby Hall Clinic. Medical outcomes can vary, and readers should consult healthcare professionals for medical advice or information about specific treatments.
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