A spinal nerve tumor is an abnormal tissue growth located in the spinal cord area or surrounding structures. This tumor can compress nerves and nearby tissues, disrupting bodily functions. Without proper treatment, it may lead to motor disturbances, limb weakness, sensory impairment, and even paralysis.
Common symptoms of spinal nerve tumors include tingling, numbness, radiating pain, difficulty walking, balance problems, and reduced mobility in the arms or legs. In severe cases, patients may lose the ability to stand independently and experience urinary issues due to impaired nerve function.
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A 38-Year-Old Patient’s Journey with a Spinal Nerve Tumor
A 38-year-old patient from Teluk Gong, North Jakarta, began experiencing symptoms in 2022, starting with frequent tingling in the hands, which later progressed to increasing difficulty moving his legs.
His condition gradually worsened over the years—from limping and struggling to walk to ultimately being unable to sit up or get out of bed without assistance. Even going to the bathroom was impossible, causing him to frequently wet the bed.
After undergoing an MRI, doctors discovered a lesion in the neck area indicating a spinal nerve tumor. His condition continued to decline: he needed to be fed, his body felt numb and tingling like stroke symptoms, and he could no longer travel for treatment due to severe weakness.
During this critical period, his church community and school friends helped connect him with Dr. dr. Mardjono Tjahjadi, Sp.BS, Subsp. N-Vas, F. N-Onk, PhD, FICS, IFAANS (Dr. Joy) at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri.
Surgery with Dr. Joy and Recovery Progress at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
The patient then underwent spinal nerve tumor surgery led directly by Dr. Joy. The procedure went smoothly, and recovery progressed faster than expected. Just hours after surgery, he began to regain movement in his arms and legs—something he previously could not do at all. This was a major sign of neurological improvement.
After completing physiotherapy and gait training, his condition improved dramatically. He went from dragging his legs to being able to take steps independently. He even resumed outdoor activities after months of relying entirely on assistance.
Within two months, he felt his body returning to how it was two years before the surgery—stronger, more stable, and more hopeful.
The patient also shared his gratitude for Dr. Joy’s attention, empathy, and encouragement throughout the treatment process. These qualities motivated him to stay committed to therapy. “He is friendly, kind, and very attentive to patients. His empathy is extraordinary,” he said.
He advises the public not to ignore early signs such as tingling, numbness, or limb weakness, as these can indicate a serious condition requiring immediate examination. With timely diagnosis and expert treatment, the chances of recovery are significantly higher.
About Dr. Joy — A Neurosurgeon and MURI Record Holder

Dr. dr. Mardjono Tjahjadi, Sp.BS, Subsp. N-Vas, F. N-Onk, PhD, FICS, IFAANS, widely known as Dr. Joy, is a Neurosurgeon specializing in Cerebrovascular Surgery with outstanding academic and clinical achievements.
He completed his PhD at the University of Helsinki, Finland, in just 18 months and 12 days, earning a MURI Record for being the Fastest Doctoral Graduate in Medical Sciences in Indonesia.
In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Joy is active in academia and public education. He is the author of the books “Brain Aneurysm 1 & 2”, which explore cerebrovascular disorders in depth.
His expertise includes treating complex brain conditions such as:
- Brain aneurysms
- Cerebral artery stenosis
- Brain hemorrhage
- Benign tumors like meningiomas
- Brain cancer
Dr. Joy’s Educational and Training Background
- Faculty of Medicine, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Jakarta
- Neurosurgery Residency – Faculty of Medicine, Padjadjaran University / Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung
- WFNS Skull-Base Surgery Fellowship – Keio University Hospital, Tokyo
- Cerebrovascular Clinical Fellowship – Helsinki University Central Hospital, Finland
- Neuro-Endovascular / Neurointerventional Clinical & Research Fellowship – Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, South Korea
- PhD Program in Clinical Science – University of Helsinki, Finland
- Board-Certified Subspecialist in Vascular Neurosurgery, Indonesia
- Board-Certified Fellowship in Oncology Neurosurgery, Indonesia
With extensive international experience, subspecialty expertise, and dedication to patient care, Dr. Joy is recognized as one of Indonesia’s leading neurosurgeons—especially for complex cerebrovascular cases.
Dr. Joy’s Consultation Schedule at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
Dr. dr. Mardjono Tjahjadi, Sp.BS, Subsp. N-Vas, F. N-Onk, PhD, FICS, IFAANS consultation hours:
- Monday: by appointment
- Tuesday: 14:00 – 17:00 WIB
- Wednesday: by appointment
- Thursday: 08:00 – 12:00 WIB
- Friday: 14:00 – 17:00 WIB
- Saturday: 08:00 – 12:00 WIB
To make your visit to Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri easier, use the WhatsApp Chat, Book Appointment, or Care Dokter App, available on Google Play and the App Store, to check queue numbers and access complete information.

