Saif Ali Khan attack: Neurosurgeon discusses complications of spinal stab wounds

As actor Saif Ali Khan recovers at Lilavati Hospital following a brutal stabbing, Patriot spoke with Dr Amitabh Gupta, Associate Director Neurosurgery at PSRI Hospital, New Delhi, to understand the possible implications of such injuries near the spine.

Dr Gupta highlighted the severe risks posed by stab wounds in the spinal region. “Stabbing injury anywhere near the spinal cord area is very dangerous and is considered a critical injury. Stabbing itself can cut nerves or the spinal cord. This can lead to complete paralysis or partial paralysis or weakness of both or either lower limbs,” he explained.

Risks of spinal injuries

The proximity of one of Khan’s stab wounds to the spine has sparked concern among health experts. According to Dr Gupta, injuries in this region can have far-reaching consequences. “This injury can damage the nerve supply to the bowel and bladder, causing loss of bowel or bladder control. Lower limb sensations can be affected, causing numbness or loss of sensation in the lower limbs. Leakage of spinal fluid can get infected and lead to brain or spinal nerve infection,” he noted.

Prognosis remains unclear

When asked about Khan’s recovery prospects, Dr Gupta emphasised the uncertainty surrounding such cases. “Currently, a clear picture of the injury is not available, but it is supposedly stable. The injury was very close to the spinal region, so until we know the extent of the injury, it will be difficult to comment on the severity or the outcome of the stabbing. There is a likelihood of some deficits in the lower limbs given the nature of the stab injury near the spinal region,” he stated.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan out of danger after surgery, knife removed from spine: Doctors

Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology at Fortis Hospital, said, “The attack on actor Saif Ali Khan has shocked the entire nation.”

“The actor was stabbed six times, including two deep cuts. One of the cuts was near the spine. A stab wound near the spine poses significant risks due to its proximity to vital structures, such as the spinal cord, nerves, and blood vessels. The severity of the injury depends on the depth, angle, and location of the wound. It can lead to nerve paralysis, tingling, numbness, and excessive bleeding, which may affect bone and blood pressure,” Dr Gupta explained.

“If these stabs involve vital structures, such as the carotid artery or major arteries leading to the brain, they can cause massive bleeding and, in some cases, can be fatal. Additionally, if they damage larger nerves or the spinal cord, they can result in significant long-term damage,” Dr Gupta added.

The actor underwent emergency surgery performed by a specialised team at Lilavati Hospital, but the long-term impact of the injuries is yet to be determined.

The incident

According to Lilavati Hospital’s COO, Dr Niraj Uttamani, Khan was attacked by an unidentified assailant at his Bandra residence and was brought to the hospital at 3.30 am.

“Saif has six stab wounds, two of which are deep. One of the deep wounds is dangerously close to his spine,” Dr Uttamani stated. 

A specialised medical team, including neurosurgeon Dr Nitin Dange, cosmetic surgeon Dr Leena Jain, and anaesthesiologist Dr Nisha Gandhi, performed emergency surgery to treat the injuries.