Myelopathy Treatment Cost in India

Myelopathy treatment in India typically ranges from $1,500 to $7,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Myelopathy means the spinal cord is being compressed or damaged. In the neck (cervical myelopathy), UC Davis Health notes it is usually caused by age-related arthritic changes that narrow the spinal canal. Cost depends on:

• Diagnosis: MRI of the spine and nerve studies (EMG/NCS).
• Surgical approach: decompression from the front or back of the neck, with or without fusion.
• Number of levels treated
• Rehabilitation: physiotherapy and occupational therapy afterwards.

UC Davis Health lists:

• Weakness, numbness or tingling: in the arms or legs.
• Poor coordination: including clumsy hands.
• Balance and walking problems
• Spasticity: stiffness in the legs.
• Bladder or bowel problems: in severe cases.

Symptoms usually develop gradually, and severe deficits increase the risk of further decline.

According to UC Davis Health, surgery to decompress the spinal cord is common practice for severe deficits because of the risk of progression, though the evidence on best timing and type of surgery is limited.

• Aim of surgery: to stop further damage; recovery of lost function varies.
• Risks: UC Davis reports complications in up to 16% of patients.
• Other causes: multiple sclerosis, tumours and other conditions must be excluded.
• Mild cases: may be monitored closely with a specialist.

• Hospital stay: usually a few days after decompression surgery.
• Neck collar: sometimes worn for a period after surgery.
• Rehabilitation: physiotherapy and occupational therapy improve strength, coordination and daily function.
• Time in India: about one to two weeks before flying.
• Bring: MRI scans on disc and nerve study reports.