Actress Nushrratt Bharuccha, who recently sustained a spinal fracture due to an accident in Bali, has been transported back to Mumbai for additional medical care. Upon her arrival in India, she was observed on a stretcher.
Her team had previously announced that Bharuccha experienced a spinal injury during the incident and was receiving medical attention in Bali. Following this, arrangements were made for her airlift to Mumbai for further evaluation and treatment.
While specifics regarding the nature of Bharuccha’s injury have not been disclosed, spinal fractures can differ widely in severity. Some may be treated with conservative measures such as medication and bracing, while others could necessitate surgical intervention, particularly in cases where the spine is unstable or there is compression on the spinal cord or nerves.
Dr. Jayesh Bhanushali, a Consultant in Spine Surgery at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, emphasized that the treatment approach hinges on various factors beyond the fracture itself. “Not every spinal fracture requires surgery,” he noted. Medical professionals will evaluate the location and type of the fracture, the stability of the spine, any displacement of the vertebra, and whether there is any pressure affecting the spinal cord or nerves.
Surgical options are typically considered when the fracture presents instability or significant vertebral collapse or deformity, according to Dr. Bhanushali. The presence of neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control can also play a crucial role in the decision-making process for surgery.
In cases where the spine is stable and there is no nerve involvement, treatment may often be managed without surgical intervention. This could involve pain relief, bracing, and regular medical follow-ups tailored to the specific injury.
Dr. Bhanushali explained that air ambulances are equipped to transport patients with serious injuries while ensuring spinal precautions and ongoing medical supervision. This mode of transport becomes particularly vital when specialized care is unavailable at the injury site. Medically equipped aircraft can offer oxygen, monitoring, pain management, and immobilization during transit, accompanied by trained medical staff.
However, organizing the airlift is not a straightforward task. “The timing for transfer is determined only after the patient has stabilized and the medical team confirms that flying is safe,” Dr. Bhanushali stated. The decision is influenced by factors such as the type of fracture, spinal stability, neurological condition, pain management, and the overall health of the patient.
In the aftermath of a significant spinal injury, commercial flights are generally discouraged unless medical professionals confirm that it is safe for the patient to travel. For urgent medical transfers, a specialized air ambulance may be utilized, as it allows for continuous monitoring and adherence to spinal precautions throughout the flight.
Post-surgery protocols also differ. “The attending surgeon will determine when travel is safe based on the patient’s recovery and potential complications, such as blood clots,” Dr. Bhanushali noted.
Stable fractures may show improvement over a timeframe of six to twelve weeks, while more complex fractures that require surgery can necessitate several months of healing. However, this does not imply that patients must remain immobile for the entire duration. In certain cases, patients may begin walking relatively early, once the spine is stabilized and the surgeon gives permission for movement.
Dr. Bhanushali added that early, supervised physiotherapy aims to promote safe movement, enhance muscle strength, and gradually restore daily activities. The timeline for a return to normal activities, however, varies among individuals, depending on the healing of the bone, neurological recovery, and the specifics of any surgical procedures.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on publicly available information and insights from medical experts. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen.
