Neurosurgeon Explains Knife Injury Effects

“Poora blood tha but he walked in like a lion, and only with a small child, his son. He’s a real hero that way,” Uttamani said in a press conference.

#WATCH | Saif Ali Khan Attack Case | Niraj Uttamani, Chief Operating Officer of Lilavati Hospital says, “Saif Ali Khan is a real hero…He is doing well. He has been shifted from ICU to a normal room…” pic.twitter.com/3pucBkC8ys

— ANI (@ANI) January 17, 2025

The attack took place at Khan’s duplex apartment in the upscale ‘Satguru Sharan’ building, where he lives with his wife, actress Kareena Kapoor, and their two sons, Taimur and Jeh. The intruder, who sought a ransom of ₹1 crore, managed to enter without forced entry.

Uttamani also revealed that the knife that doctors removed from Saif’s spine was a “2.5-inch long knife piece’, ANI reported.

Dr Nitin Dange, neurosurgeon at Lilavati Hospital, provided detailed insights into Khan’s treatment at the press briefing. “The sharp object had gone deep, touching the dura and spinal cord but thankfully did not cause permanent damage,” he explained. Emergency surgery successfully repaired the spinal dura and halted a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, a condition that could have led to severe complications, including meningitis.

Spinal surgery consultant Dr Agnivesh Tikoo of Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai shares the risks of CSF leaks to indianexpress.com, explaining that while many patients recover fully, untreated leaks can lead to persistent headaches, dizziness, and even life-threatening infections like meningitis.

This vital fluid cushions the brain and spinal cord while providing essential nutrients to these neural structures.

The photo of the accused released by authorities and the knife pulled out by doctors from Saif Ali Khan’s back. (Express Photos)

What happens to the body when CSF leaks as in Saif’s case?

Dr Tikoo explained that healing from a CSF leak depends on the severity and cause. In Khan’s case, the leak was traumatic, caused by the injury, and required surgical repair. Key points about recovery include:

In Khan’s situation, neurosurgeons repaired the dura to stop the fluid leak and prevent complications. This procedure often involves suturing or sealing the affected area to restore normal fluid dynamics.

Post-surgery, patients are typically advised to rest in a reclined position to reduce strain on the repaired dura. This helps the body maintain adequate fluid pressure and supports healing.

While Khan is already walking, Dr Tikoo noted that mobility must be managed carefully, avoiding bending, twisting, or heavy lifting to prevent strain on the spinal area. Maintaining proper hydration and a nutrient-rich diet aids recovery by promoting tissue repair and overall health.

Patients are monitored for any signs of persistent headaches, dizziness, or neurological symptoms, which may indicate incomplete healing or new issues.

While most patients recover fully with timely treatment, Dr Tikoo emphasised that some may experience long-term issues such as chronic headaches, fatigue, or back pain. If conservative measures fail, additional interventions like blood patches or further surgeries may be necessary. Khan’s adherence to medical advice, physiotherapy, and rest will play a crucial role in his complete recovery.

Currently, Saif Ali Khan is recovering well. His doctors shared in the press briefing that he has started walking and is on a regular diet. He is going to be shifted from the ICU to a special room but has been advised strict bed rest due to the spinal injury.

At the time of the attack, Khan’s family was present in the apartment. Kareena Kapoor and their children were unharmed. Police investigations reveal the attack was likely an attempted robbery, with the intruder demanding a hefty ransom.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.