Surgeons at the St Petersburg University Clinic give a girl with spinal muscular atrophy the ability to breathe freely again

The young patient was admitted to the University’s Clinic as the severe genetic disease — spinal muscular atrophy — progressed. The girl was diagnosed with deformities typical of spinal muscular dystrophy. For example, her chest was severely deformed, making it difficult for her to breathe and threatening not only her health but also her life. Joint dysfunction prevented her from straightening her legs at the pelvis and knees. The severe deformity of her spine made it impossible for her to use a wheelchair, making her care and mobility much more difficult. 

"Without spinal surgery — the so-called verticalising surgery — patients with such pathology have a negative prognosis due to the threat of transition to a fully recumbent position," said Professor Aleksandr Gubin, Deputy Director of the Medical Part (Traumatology and Orthopaedics), Doctor of Science (Medicine), a high level certificate orthopaedic traumatologist.

Spinal muscular atrophy (spinal amyotrophy) is a group of inherited diseases caused by genetic changes in the nerves in the spinal cord that control movement. Patients with SMA experience muscle weakness and breathing difficulties. They are unable to perform the most common activities such as sitting or walking.

The surgeons at the Pirogov Clinic of St Petersburg University performed the operation to correct the scoliotic deformity of the spine. They installed a "growing" spinal system, i.e. a metal structure that can be lengthened as the child grows. The surgeons used domestically produced implants — transpedicular screws and rods made from a high-quality titanium alloy. 

The patient was able to sit up with support already on the second day after the operation. The girl is now recovering from the operation and has been discharged home.