In a remarkable display of medical expertise and dedication, doctors and healthcare workers of Indira Gandhi Memorial (IGM) Hospital have successfully saved the life of a 35-year-old tetanus patient, Bikas Debbarma, from Shikaribari area of Khowai’s Champahaor

Bikas was first admitted to GBP Hospital in Agartala on May 12 in an extremely weakened condition.

He was unable to walk, speak, or even lift his head. Upon initial examination, the doctors learned that he had undergone a leg amputation a few days earlier and had not received a tetanus vaccination post-surgery. He had only taken medicines from a local shop.

Observing his worsening condition and symptoms suggestive of tetanus, the doctors at GBP Hospital referred him to IGM Hospital on May 15. He was admitted under the care of Dr. Debesh Debbarma, a specialist in the CDC department. Bikash was suffering from classic signs of tetanus — trismus (jaw muscle spasms), opisthotonus (arched back), and difficulty in breathing.

Following prompt diagnosis and treatment led by Dr. Bibhuranjan Das, along with Dr. Nitish Das and Dr. Debipriya Saha of the Medicine Department, Bikash was placed in a dark, quiet room to reduce stimulation and aid recovery — a standard protocol in severe tetanus cases.

Tetanus, caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, leads to painful muscle stiffness and spasms, typically beginning in the jaw before spreading to the rest of the body. It is often fatal without timely intervention.

With the round-the-clock efforts of PGT doctors, nursing officers, and the physiotherapy unit, Bikash showed signs of improvement within two days. Intensive physiotherapy was initiated, and he gradually regained his ability to walk and communicate. After days of rigorous treatment and care, he was discharged today in a stable and healthy condition.

Speaking to reporters, health officials noted that such tetanus cases are now rare due to widespread immunization. However, this case serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by inadequate post-operative care and failure to vaccinate.