A 38-year-old Dubai resident, Marwa Alsufi Ramadan, recently underwent a groundbreaking surgery procedure that has transformed her life and provided relief from a rare and debilitating condition known as ‘cheerleader syndrome.’ Suffering from bilateral idiopathic condylar resorption, a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, Marwa endured irregular jaw function, tooth loss, and significant chewing discomfort for decades.
Marwa’s journey to find an effective medical solution led her to NMC Royal Hospital, Sharjah, where she sought the expertise of Dr. Shyamsunder Nair, the head of oral and maxillofacial surgery, and Dr. Pramod Subhash, a consultant in craniomaxillofacial surgery. Their comprehensive examination revealed that her condition had developed from progressive resorption/erosion of her jaw joints, resulting in changes to her bite and facial profile.
To address her long-standing condition, the medical team recommended a bilateral TMJ replacement surgery. The revolutionary procedure aimed to correct the irregular jaw bones, realign the jaw and teeth, and restore proper functioning. Utilizing cutting-edge 3D printing technology, custom-made TMJ joints were designed based on Marwa’s CT scan and virtual surgical planning.
With skill and precision, the surgeons implanted the custom joints through small, discreet incisions, successfully relieving Marwa from pain and significantly improving her jaw’s functionality and appearance. The surgery marked a significant achievement in the region’s medical landscape and opened doors for similar cases, showcasing NMC Royal Hospital’s commitment to innovative medical solutions.
Two months after the life-altering surgery, Marwa has been experiencing a remarkable transformation. The surgery not only alleviated her pain but also enhanced her jaw’s mobility and aesthetics, providing her with a newfound lease on life. Expressing her heartfelt gratitude, Marwa praised the medical and administrative staff for their exceptional support, care, and top-notch services throughout her journey to recovery.
Dr. Shyamsunder Nair emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment for conditions like ‘cheerleader syndrome,’ which affects less than 1 per cent of the population. He praised the dedication and expertise of the medical team and underlined that Marwa’s case represented a new frontier in the region’s medical landscape.
Dr. Pramod Subhash expressed delight in helping Marwa return to a pain-free normal life. He highlighted the advanced care for TMJ disorders available at NMC Royal Hospital, ranging from arthroscopy to total joint replacement with jaw deformity correction.
Marwa’s successful surgery signifies a triumph over her debilitating condition and offers hope to others facing similar challenges. The medical team’s innovative approach and dedication have reinforced NMC Royal Hospital‘s position as a leading healthcare institution in the Middle East. As Marwa continues her journey to recovery, her story serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of modern medicine and its potential to change lives for the better.