First Successful L5-S1 TLIF Spine Surgery Performed at District Hospital Kulgam

Danishwar Hameed 

Kulgam, February 17, 2025 – The Department of Orthopedics at District Hospital Kulgam has achieved a significant milestone by successfully performing the first-ever L5-S1 Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) spine surgery at the hospital.

A team of orthopedic surgeons led by Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Towseef Ahmad Bhat, along with Dr. Aabid, Dr. Khursheed, and Dr. Danish, successfully performed the procedure on a 33-year-old female patient. The patient was suffering from L5-S1 spondylolisthesis, which had been causing her severe pain in the lower back and left lower limb.

The anesthesia team, which included Dr. Majid, Dr. Umer, Dr. Anees, and Dr. Peerzada Saqib, along with senior anesthesia technician Mr. Shabir Ahmad Shah, played a vital role in ensuring a smooth surgical procedure. OT technician Mr. Imtiyaz, along with OT staff members Mr. Manzoor Ahmad, Mr. Farooq Ahmad (C-arm technician), and Mr. Ab Salam, contributed significantly to the successful execution of the surgery.

Following the procedure, the patient is recovering well and has reported significant relief from her symptoms.

“We are thrilled to have achieved this milestone,” said Dr. Towseef Ahmad Bhat. “Our team has worked tirelessly to provide the best possible care to our patients, and this success is a testament to our dedication and commitment.”

The team extended their gratitude to the Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Kulgam, Dr. A.G. Raina, for his unwavering logistical support, which made this achievement possible.

The surgery was performed free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, saving the patient an estimated expense of ₹2.5 to ₹3 lakh. This milestone underscores the hospital’s commitment to providing advanced medical care to patients in the region without financial burden.

With this achievement, District Hospital Kulgam continues to set new standards in healthcare excellence, paving the way for more advanced medical procedures in the future.