Corpectomy Surgery

Who Requires Corpectomy Surgery?

A corpectomy is generally advised if less invasive spinal procedures do not provide relief or are impossible. You might require a corpectomy if you have:

• Spinal cord compression as a result of injury or degenerative disorders
• Cervical spondylotic myelopathy
• Herniated or collapsed intervertebral discs
• Vertebral fractures due to accidents or osteoporosis
• Spinal tumors or metastatic cancers of the vertebral body
• Infectious diseases like tuberculosis or osteomyelitis

Physicians typically advise the surgery when nerve compression results in persistent pain, numbness, muscle weakness, or bladder/bowel dysfunction.

Types of Corpectomy Surgery Procedure

The type of corpectomy is based on the spinal location and the approach:

Cervical Corpectomy

A cervical corpectomy is performed on the neck vertebrae (cervical spine). It is used to treat degenerative disease or spinal cord compression.

Thoracic Corpectomy

A thoracic corpectomy is performed on the mid-back vertebrae. It is used to treat tumors, trauma, or deformities.

Lumbar Corpectomy

A lumbar corpectomy is performed on the lower back. Although it is less frequently used, it can be used for spinal trauma or infections.

Anterior Corpectomy

An anterior corpectomy is performed by approaching the spine from the front (anterior) to reach the vertebral body.

Posterior Corpectomy

In a posterior corpectomy, the surgeon gains access to the spine from the back (posterior), typically when a tumor or trauma is found at the back of the spine.

Minimally Invasive Corpectomy

Minimally invasive corpectomy is performed through smaller incisions and advanced imaging devices. It minimizes trauma, blood loss, and recovery time.

Pre-Surgery Evaluation and Diagnostics

A thorough preoperative evaluation is crucial. The following steps are typically involved:

• Clinical examination
• MRI scans
• CT scans or X-rays
• EMG or nerve conduction studies
• Blood tests
• Anesthesia evaluation

These diagnostics assist the surgeon in planning the most effective and safest method.

Selection and Surgical Planning Before Corpectomy

Surgical planning involves identifying:

• The specific vertebrae to be removed
• The method of surgery (anterior, posterior, or lateral)
• Material to be implanted or used as a graft (autograft, allograft, or synthetic cage)
• Method of stabilizing with plates, screws, or rods
• Fusion approach to ensure long-term spinal stability

Surgeons also educate the patient about the surgery, expected outcome, risks, and recovery duration. If needed, physiotherapy begins pre-operatively to improve post-surgery outcomes.

Corpectomy Surgery Process

Corpectomy surgery lasts about 3 to 6 hours, depending on how complex the operation is. The procedure entails:

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
• Surgical access: An incision is made for surgical exposure of the spine.
• Removal: The damaged vertebral body and intervertebral discs are removed carefully to decompress the spinal cord and nerves.
• Grafting and Implant: A bone graft, cage, or spacer is used to fill the void and maintain spinal height.
• Stabilization: Metal plates or screws are used to stabilize the area and aid fusion.
• Closure: The incision is closed, and sterile dressings are used.

The patient is then transferred to a recovery room for observation.

Risks & Potential Complications of Corpectomy Surgery

Although a well-established surgery, corpectomy is not without some risks, which include:

• Surgical site infection
• Bleeding or blood clotting
• Dural tears resulting in spinal fluid leaks
• Failure of the implant or improper placement
• Non-union or failed fusion
• Damage to nerves, which may result in pain, numbness, or weakness
• Adjacent segment disease (degeneration of the adjacent vertebrae over time)
• Complications related to anesthesia

Selecting an experienced surgeon minimizes these risks considerably.

What to Expect After Corpectomy Surgery?

Patients are immediately kept in a recovery room following surgery. Here’s what you can expect:

• Pain control with medication
• Drainage tubes to allow fluid to escape
• Spinal bracing (especially for cervical cases)
• Encouraging early mobility within 24-48 hours
• Monitoring of neurological status and vital signs

The majority of patients remain hospitalized for 5 to 7 days, depending on the complexity of the procedure and post-op state.

Post-Surgery Recovery & Long-Term Care

Recovery from a corpectomy procedure consists of the following:

• Physical therapy to restore mobility and strength
• Pain medication and antibiotics as directed
• X-rays or MRIs followed regularly to ensure spinal fusion
• Activity restrictions for a few weeks (lifting, bending, driving)
• Return to work gradually (generally in 6–12 weeks)

Fusion generally takes 3–6 months. Patients should practice good posture, quit smoking, and adhere to all medical advice for long-term success.

Corpectomy Surgery Success Rate in India

Indian hospitals report a very high success rate of 85% to 95% in corpectomy surgery. This is based on the patient's condition and the surgeon's expertise. Patients find relief from pain and neurological improvement in most cases. Success in India can be linked to:

• State-of-the-art surgical technology
• Highly trained neurosurgeons and spine specialists in orthopedics
• Effective pre-and post-operative care

Corpectomy Surgery Cost in India

One of the reasons that India is a popular destination for international patients is that spinal surgeries are very cost-effective. India offers corpectomy surgery at a cost ranging between USD 5,000 to USD 8,000.

Type of corpectomy (cervical, thoracic, lumbar), city and hospital, type of implants, surgeon's qualifications, and hospital stay, all affect the cost of corpectomy in India. The cost here is much less than in the US or Europe, where the same surgery can be as high as  USD 30,000.

Documents Required for Patients Traveling to India for Corpectomy Surgery

For international patients looking for corpectomy surgery in India, it is necessary to present certain documentation to have a smooth medical journey. These include:

• Valid Passport: Valid for a minimum of six months after the date you travel.
• Medical Visa (M Visa): Granted by the Indian Embassy/Consulate on medical grounds.
• Invitation Letter from Indian Hospital: A formal letter explaining the course of treatment and how long it will last.
• Recent medical records: X-rays, MRIs, blood tests, and a referral note by a doctor in the home country.
• Completed visa application form: With passport-size photographs according to specifications.
• Proof of means: Bank statements dated in the past few months or health insurance.
• Medical Attendant visa: Needed for a companion or caregiver traveling with the patient.

It is advisable to refer to the Indian consulate or your medical facilitator for the latest information and help with documentation.

Why Choose India for Corpectomy Surgery?

India is now a center for global patients because of its:

• State-of-the-art hospitals with JCI and NABH accreditations
• Experienced spine surgeons with international training
• Availbaility of latest technology with minimally invasive procedures
• Inexpensive treatment packages with surgery, stay, medication, and post-operative care
• Less waiting time
• Multilingual patient care staff and international patient services

Top Corpectomy Surgeons in India

Some of the top spine and neurosurgeons in India are:

1. Dr. Sandeep Vaishya, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
2. Dr. Sajan K Hegde, Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
3. Dr. Abrar Ahmed, Apollo Gleneagles Hospital, Kolkata
4. Dr. Hitesh Garg, Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
5. Dr. Bipin Walia, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi

These experts have performed thousands of complex spine surgeries with exceptional outcomes.

Best Hospitals for Corpectomy Surgery in India

India has highly rated hospitals that perform corpectomy surgery, including:

1. Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi
2. Apollo Hospital, Ahmedabad
3. Fortis Hospital, Delhi
4. Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai
5. Manipal Hospital, Bangalore

These hospitals offer advanced neurosurgical and orthopedic departments, 24/7 ICU support, and personalized rehabilitation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is corpectomy surgery painful?

Pain is managed effectively using anesthesia during the surgery and painkillers afterward. Some discomfort is expected, but it subsides with recovery.

How long will it take to recover from a corpectomy?

Full recovery may take 3–6 months. However, most patients return to daily activities within 6–12 weeks post-surgery.

Can corpectomy be performed minimally invasively?

Yes, minimally invasive corpectomy is possible in India, based on your condition and your surgeon's opinion.

Will I require a spinal fusion following a corpectomy?

Yes, spinal fusion with the help of bone grafts and implants is normally done to stabilize the spine following removal of the vertebrae.

Is it safe to go to India for spine surgery?

Yes. India has a robust medical tourism industry with top players like EdhaCare assisting international patients with visa support, and world-class surgical outcomes.