Marking a significant milestone in Tripura’s medical history, Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) and GBP Hospital has successfully conducted the state’s first-ever paediatric spinal deformity correction surgery, reaffirming its position as a leading centre for advanced neurosurgical care in the region.

The complex seven-hour-long procedure was performed on 11-year-old Rupam Bhowmik, a resident of Reshambagan in Chandrapur, who had been suffering from a severe spinal deformity caused by healed spinal tuberculosis (Pott’s Spine). The deformity had resulted in an extreme forward-stooped posture, causing constant pain and severely affecting his daily life.

The ground-breaking surgery was carried out by a multidisciplinary team led by eminent neurosurgeon Dr. Siddareddy Ankireddypalli. The surgical team successfully performed a Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO)—a highly intricate and rare spinal procedure requiring exceptional surgical precision to correct sharp spinal angulation while preserving delicate spinal cord functions.

Speaking to reporters, Dr. Sanjeev Debbarma, Head of Paediatrics department, explained the critical nature of the deformity and the grave risks it posed, including permanent disability if left untreated. “The child couldn’t sleep on his back and was losing quality of life. This surgery was his only hope for a normal life,” he said.

This medical feat was made possible by a combination of outstanding clinical expertise and proactive administrative support. The hospital administration, under the leadership of Medical Superintendent Dr. Shankar Chakraborty.

The surgery, performed completely free of cost, was supported by the Rogi Kalyan Samity. The patient was referred through Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha’s ‘Mukhyamantri Samipeshu’ programme.

The success of the operation not only highlighted the clinical prowess of AGMC & GBP Hospital but also demonstrated the growing capacity of Tripura’s healthcare system to deliver world-class care to its citizens.

“This achievement underscores our commitment to providing cutting-edge healthcare, irrespective of socioeconomic background,” said Dr. Chakraborty. AGMC Principal Dr. Anup Kumar Saha and senior medical experts were also present during the announcement.

The dedicated team behind this remarkable success included neurosurgeons Dr. Suman Dhar and Dr. Debdatta Saha, the Anaesthesia team, OT sisters, ancillary staff, and the Paediatrics team comprising Prof. Sanjib Debbarma, Dr. Ripan Debbarma, and Dr. Chayan Sarkar, who ensured comprehensive pre-operative and post-operative care.

The young patient is now on the path to full recovery, offering new hope to children with similar conditions across the region. He was admitted to the hospital on March 28 and the surgery was performed successfully on June 02 last.