“Chronic back pain can silently take away the joy of living—especially when it radiates down the legs and limits even the simplest daily activities”
This is the story of Mr. Jacinto Mutamba from Mozambique, who travelled thousands of miles seeking relief after suffering from debilitating back pain for nearly two decades.
Mr. Jacinto Profile Overview
- Name: Mr. Jacinto S. Mutamba
- Country: Mozambique
- Condition: Severe low back pain radiating to the left leg
- Diagnosis: L4–L5 lytic spondylolisthesis with additional disc disease with collapse at L5–S1
- Procedure Performed: Minimally Invasive TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion) at L4–L5 and L5–S1
Mr. Jacinto Medical History
For almost 20 years, Mr. Mutamba had been dealing with chronic back pain. The discomfort got worse over time and started to spread down his left leg, making it hard for him to move, sleep, and live a good life.
After undergoing various investigations in his home country and abroad, he continued to receive conflicting opinions. It was only after learning about Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, through references from previously treated patients that he finally decided to explore the option of advanced spine treatment in India.
What he says :
“I did extensive research on different options, specialists, and hospitals around the world. After speaking to many people treated here, I finally chose Dr Hitesh Garg Artemis Hospital—and I am truly glad I made that decision.”
A complete Diagnosis evaluation by Dr Hitesh Garg at Artemis Hospital
A detailed evaluation, including advanced imaging, revealed that Mr. Mutamba was suffering from L4–L5 lytic spondylolisthesis, where the L4 vertebra had slipped forward over L5.
Additionally, there was a significant disc space collapse at L5–S1, further contributing to nerve compression and instability.
This explained the severe nerve pain radiating into his left leg and his difficulty with walking and standing.
The Surgical Day Plan: Minimally Invasive Double-Level Fusion
Dr. Hitesh Garg and his team made the following suggestions after a thorough evaluation:
✔ Minimally Invasive TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion)
- At L4–L5
- At L5–S1
The goal was to:
- Decompress the severely pinched nerves
- Restore stability of the spine
- Realign the slipped vertebrae
- Achieve long-term fusion with minimal tissue damage
Dr. Hitesh addresses about the surgery:
“For a condition like lytic spondylolisthesis combined with L5–S1 collapse, a minimally invasive TLIF offers excellent decompression and stability while ensuring faster recovery.
Our focus was on relieving his nerve compression and restoring his spinal alignment with the least tissue trauma.”
Remarkable Recovery: Standing within 24 Hours post surgery
The surgery was successfully performed on 18th June at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, using advanced minimally invasive techniques.
To everyone’s delight, within 24 hours, Mr. Mutamba was standing and walking with support. Over the next several days, he continued to make rapid progress.
He proudly shares:
“From the next day itself, I never looked back. I kept walking and walking. Now, 15 days later, the pain that brought me here is completely gone. It’s almost hard to believe.”
Two Weeks Later: Completely Pain-Free
At his 2-week follow-up, Mr. Mutamba was:
- Pain-free
- Walking independently
- Performing daily activities comfortably
- Free from leg pain and nerve symptoms
Dr. Hitesh Garg adds:
“The real sign of success is seeing him pain-free and active again.” Mr. Mutamba can swiftly regain their ability to move with minimal pain after minimally invasive spine surgery. His positive attitude and commitment to therapy were also crucial.”
A Heartwarming Note from the Patient
Beyond his successful recovery, Mr. Mutamba was deeply moved by the kindness and warmth he experienced in India:
“India has been amazing. Every place we stayed, every person we met—there was so much kindness and hospitality. The medical services, the hospital, the people… it’s remarkable. Congratulations to this wonderful country.”
Conclusion
This case exemplifies the remarkable impact that advanced minimally invasive spine surgery can have on an individual who has endured prolonged suffering. Through precise diagnosis, skilled surgical intervention, and dedicated patient involvement, even chronic spinal issues can be effectively addressed.
Dr. Hitesh Garg and his team at Artemis Hospital provide exceptional spine care to patients both locally and internationally, focusing on expedited recovery, reduced discomfort, and sustained relief.