Young Patient from South America Regains Posture After Complex Robotic Spine Surgery in Chennai

Chennai, April 21, 2026: In a remarkable display of advanced medical care, Apollo Speciality Hospitals and its Spine Clinic in Teynampet have successfully performed a complex robotic-assisted spinal deformity correction on a 15-year-old international patient suffering from severe Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis. The achievement further strengthens Chennai’s growing reputation as a global hub for advanced spine treatment.

The teenage patient travelled nearly 48 hours from South America to seek specialised care for a progressive spinal curvature that had begun to significantly affect her posture, mobility, and overall health. Following the intricate procedure, doctors report a substantial correction in spinal alignment, with the patient now recovering steadily.

The surgery was led by Dr. Sajan K. Hegde, Director of Spine Surgery, using a staged robotic-assisted approach supported by advanced intraoperative neuromonitoring systems. The hospital is among a select few centres equipped with cutting-edge robotic navigation technology, enabling precise implant placement while minimising surgical risks.

Treatment began with halo gravity traction to gradually improve spinal alignment, followed by a two-stage surgical intervention. The first phase involved posterior spinal exposure with robotic-assisted pedicle screw fixation under neuromonitoring. The second stage included anterior discectomy and fusion from D7 to D11, combined with posterior deformity correction and fusion extending from D2 to L4, along with thoracoplasty.

“Managing complex adolescent scoliosis requires meticulous planning and a multidisciplinary approach. With robotic-assisted surgery and neuromonitoring, we are able to enhance precision and safety even in challenging cases,” said Dr. Hegde, noting that the outcome reflects the combined strength of technology and clinical expertise.

The patient’s family expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating that the long journey was worthwhile as they witnessed a visible improvement in her posture and confidence.

Echoing similar views, Dr. Appaji Krishnan, Senior Consultant – Spine Surgery, highlighted the role of advanced robotic systems in achieving greater surgical accuracy and optimal alignment despite the complexity of the procedure.

Speaking on the broader significance, Karan Puri, CEO of Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Teynampet, said that Chennai continues to attract international patients for high-risk and complex procedures due to its combination of skilled specialists, advanced infrastructure, and cost-effective care.

Robotic-assisted spine surgery, including platforms such as ExcelsiusGPS, enables real-time navigation and improved surgical planning, particularly in complex deformity corrections. These innovations are helping deliver consistent outcomes while reducing complications.

This case underscores the transformative role of precision-driven technologies in modern spine care and highlights the increasing global trust in India’s healthcare ecosystem, with Chennai emerging as a preferred destination for world-class medical treatment.

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