A unique operation was performed in Vitebsk: a paralyzed patient started walking again thanks to 3D technologies
In Vitebsk, a unique spinal surgery for Belarus was performed. Surgeons used a domestic implant, printed on a 3D printer, to get a person back on their feet who was predicted to have lifelong disability.
Siarhei Kapachou (left) with doctors
Vitebsk surgeons performed spinal surgery using 3D technologies for the first time. The domestically produced implant allowed for the complete removal of stress from the damaged cervical spine and the redistribution of the head's weight onto healthy thoracic vertebrae. The patient, who was brought to the hospital paralyzed, is already standing on his own feet, according to ONT.
The patient was Siarhei Kapachou, a liquidator of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident. The man was suddenly paralyzed, and doctors had to act decisively. Specialists from the Center for Surgical Spinal Infection created an accurate 3D model of Siarhei's spine. Based on this, engineers produced a special metallic implant. This design allowed for: completely relieving stress from the damaged cervical spine and redistributing the head's weight onto healthy thoracic vertebrae.
The effect exceeded expectations: just a few days after the operation, the man not only stood up but began to walk independently.
Currently, there are about 10 more patients in the Vitebsk center awaiting their personalized implants.
The advanced experience of Vitebsk surgeons has already begun to be adopted by colleagues from all over the country — over 1000 remote consultations have been conducted for other hospitals.