SEHA's Madinat Zayed Hospital Successfully Treats Complex Thoracolumbar Tuberculosis Spine Case Through Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery

Precision spinal intervention prevents permanent neurological disability in young patient

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 17 April 2026 – SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, has announced the successful treatment of a complex thoracolumbar tuberculosis (TB) spine infection in a 29-year-old patient at SEHA’s Madinat Zayed Hospital. The case highlights the hospital’s advanced neurosurgical expertise and its commitment to delivering specialised, high-quality care in the Al Dhafra region.

The patient presented with recurrent severe back pain, sciatica, and progressive neurological spinal ataxia, eventually becoming wheelchair-dependent within three months. Diagnostic imaging, including X-ray, CT, and MRI, confirmed TB spondylitis and spondylodiscitis between Th9 and L1, resulting in significant spinal instability, spinal cord compression, and progressive kyphotic deformity.

Given the risk of irreversible neurological damage due to ongoing deterioration, urgent surgical intervention was undertaken. The neurosurgical team performed long-segment posterior percutaneous fixation from Th9 to L4 using fluoroscopy-guided pedicle screws. Decompression of the spinal cord and abscess drainage were achieved through laminectomies at Th11, Th12, and L1. Biopsy findings confirmed the diagnosis of spinal tuberculosis, and deformity correction was completed using advanced rod-contouring techniques.

The patient demonstrated marked post-operative neurological improvement and was subsequently commenced on targeted anti-tuberculosis therapy as part of a comprehensive multidisciplinary treatment plan.

Dr. Ammar Alnajjar, Consultant Neurosurgeon at SEHA’s Madinat Zayed Hospital, said: “Spinal tuberculosis of this complexity is uncommon and requires precise, timely intervention. This case reflects a coordinated multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgery, infectious diseases, radiology, and rehabilitation, supported by advanced imaging and minimally invasive surgical systems. Early surgical intervention was essential to prevent permanent neurological disability and restore spinal stability.”

Spinal tuberculosis, also known as Pott’s disease, is one of the most severe forms of TB and can lead to spinal deformity and lasting neurological deficits if left untreated. This case underscores the importance of early diagnosis, specialist expertise, and access to advanced neurosurgical services.

Through the management of complex spinal infections, SEHA’s Madinat Zayed Hospital continues to strengthen its position as a leading centre for advanced spinal surgery in the UAE, delivering patient-centred care supported by innovative technology and multidisciplinary collaboration.