Abu Dhabi - 25 July 2024 – Sheikh Khalifa Medical City announced its success in saving a woman who suffered a burst fracture of the T1 vertebra due to car accident. Despite the complexity of the case, the neurosurgery team, led by Dr. Rajeswaran, was able to perform a series of emergency procedures to relieve pressure on the spine. Their prompt and coordinated actions reflect Sheikh Khalifa Medical City’s commitment to providing the highest level of care in the shortest possible time.

The patient was discharged from the hospital and able to walk without assistance just one week after arriving at the emergency department at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, a SEHA hospital, part of Pure Health, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East.

“Our team's quick and coordinated response was crucial in turning a potential tragedy into a story of hope and recovery,” said Dr Rajeswaran, Consultant and Division Chief, Neurosurgery, SKMC.

“The most important factor determining the successful outcome in such critical cases is the door-to-decompression time. Despite facing multiple surgeries simultaneously in the operating room, our team was able to prioritise and perform this emergency procedure on the same day. The involvement of the anesthesiology and operating room team in this process was vital. Their expertise and coordination were critical in the smooth execution of the surgery, reflecting the high standards of care we uphold at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City. It’s a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of our team, ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.”

Burst fractures tend to be much more severe than compression fractures and the bones spread out in all directions, risking damage to the spinal cord. Further MRI scans confirmed the severity of the injury, showing a severe A4 L1 burst fracture, with fragments of the fracture displaced into the spinal canal, as well as a narrowing of the spinal canal, and bruising resulting from the spinal cord being compressed against the spinal column.

Dr Shabal, Specialist in Neurosurgery, added: “This surgery underscores the precision and dedication required in neurosurgery, highlighting the importance of teamwork in achieving successful outcomes.”

Faiza’s swift recovery highlights SEHA's capabilities in emergency response, underscoring its ability to deliver a multidisciplinary approach, patient excellence, and the highest standards of medical quality. These capabilities have been built as a result of PureHealth’s commitment to investing in cutting-edge technologies and implementing the latest practices in line with global standards.