R ARIVANANTHAM
CHENNAI, APR 20
In a remarkable feat of medical excellence, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, along with Apollo Spine Clinic, has successfully performed a highly complex robotic-assisted spinal deformity correction on a 15-year-old international patient suffering from severe adolescent idiopathic scoliosis — reaffirming Chennai’s global standing in advanced spine care.
The young patient, who travelled nearly 48 hours from Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, underwent a meticulously planned, two-stage surgery lasting over 14 hours across two consecutive days. The outcome was transformational: her spinal curvature improved from 120 degrees to 75 degrees, while her height increased from 163 cm to 170 cm — enabling her to stand taller, both physically and emotionally.
- From 120° to 75°: Complex scoliosis dramatically corrected with precision robotics
- Across Continents for Care: South American teen travels 48 hours to Chennai for life-changing surgery
- Two Days, One Transformation: 14-hour staged procedure restores posture, mobility, and confidence
- Tech Meets Touch: Robotic navigation and neuromonitoring redefine safety in spine correction
- Global Trust in India: Chennai emerges as a powerhouse in advanced spine care and medical value travel
The procedure was led by Dr Sajan K Hegde, Director – Spine Surgery, Spine Clinic, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, using a robotic-assisted approach supported by advanced intraoperative neuromonitoring. The treatment began with halo gravity traction to gradually improve alignment, followed by posterior spinal fixation and anterior discectomy with fusion extending across multiple vertebral levels, including D2 to L4, along with thoracoplasty.
Explaining the complexity, Dr. Sajan K. Hegde said, “Managing complex adolescent scoliosis requires careful planning and a strong multidisciplinary approach. With robotic-assisted surgery and neuromonitoring, we’re able to improve precision and safety, even in challenging cases. This was a difficult case, but the combination of advanced technology and team expertise helped us achieve a good outcome. It’s encouraging to see the positive impact this can have on a young patient’s quality of life.”
Echoing this, Appaji Krishnan, Senior Consultant, Spine Clinic, Apollo Speciality Hospitals added, “Managing such a complex spinal deformity required meticulous planning and precision. The use of advanced robotic-assisted technology enabled us to achieve greater accuracy, minimize risks, and ensure optimal alignment of the spine. Despite the lengthy and multi-segment nature of the surgery, the patient responded well, and we are optimistic about her recovery and improved quality of life.”
The 15-year old patient Sedi Van Genderen and her mother Iris Van Genderen expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “Travelling across continents was not an easy decision, but seeing her stand straighter and regain confidence means everything to us. We are deeply thankful to the team at Apollo. We feel ‘A Home Away From Home‘ in Chennai with the nice hospitality from Apollo International Desk,”
Highlighting the broader significance, Karan Puri, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Teynampet said, “Chennai continues to emerge as a preferred global destination for complex and high-risk procedures, driven by advanced technology and clinical expertise. The adoption of robotic platforms in spine surgery is enabling greater precision, improved outcomes, and reinforcing India’s position in medical value travel.”
Advanced robotic systems such as ExcelsiusGPS played a critical role, offering real-time navigation and enhanced implant accuracy, particularly vital in complex deformity corrections.
This landmark case not only underscores the transformative role of precision-led technologies in modern spine surgery but also reinforces India’s growing reputation as a trusted global hub for high-end, cost-effective healthcare solutions.
