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CONDITIONS

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Failed back surgery syndrome refers to the persistence or recurrence of pain after spine surgery. Typically, patients may experience discomfort for some time after their procedure, but it should eventually subside. The development of failed back surgery syndrome can occur due to nerve damage, scar tissue formation, inflammation, or complications from the surgery itself. These complications include a failed fusion with loose or broken instrumentation or spinal malalignment. While it’s never the desired outcome following spine surgery, proper treatment can provide a huge improvement in symptoms and quality of life.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms of failed back surgery syndrome may be similar to those symptoms experienced before surgery and may worsen over time. The specific symptoms will vary depending on the patients and what has occurred to cause failed back surgery syndrome but may include:

  • Persistent pain Continued pain in the back or neck, which may be similar to or different from pain experienced before surgery
  • Radiating pain Pain in the extremities, like the arms or legs
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness This suggests nerve compression or damage has occurred from the previous surgery
  • Limited range of motion or functional impairment
  • Malalignment Leads to the inability to stand upright in a normal, balanced position.

Treatments

The treatment approach for failed back surgery syndrome will vary based on the individual patient, the underlying cause, and the severity of symptoms. In many cases, a combination of conservative measures and, in some instances, revision surgery may be considered. The decision on whether to pursue conservative measures or surgery is typically made based on a thorough evaluation by a spine specialist.

While the thought of undergoing another surgery may be daunting, it’s important to note that surgery isn’t always the only option.

Conservative treatment
  • Physical therapy Physical therapy ultimately aims to build strength, flexibility, and overall spine function, but exercises can be tailored to improve certain symptoms.
  • Medication Anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants may be prescribed to manage pain and discomfort.
  • Pain management Interventional pain management techniques, such as nerve blocks or epidural injections, may be used to alleviate pain and improve function.
Surgical Intervention
  • Revision surgery Revision surgery for failed back surgery syndrome is a complex procedure that should only be performed by an experienced spine surgeon like Dr. Avramis. This procedure aims to correct the initial surgery’s complications, alleviate pain, and restore function to the spine. The exact approach will vary depending on the individual’s symptoms and condition.
It is important to note that failed back surgery syndrome is not necessarily a result of surgical error, but rather a potential risk of any spine surgery. While it is a frustrating and painful experience for those who have already undergone spine surgery, seeking the opinion of an experienced spine specialist is crucial. With expert care and individualized treatment, many patients of Dr. Avramis have been able to find relief from their symptoms and an improved quality of life. Many of these patients were told by other spine surgeons that nothing could be done, yet they received dramatic improvement in their symptoms and quality of life with Dr. Avramis’s care.
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Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.

GET IN TOUCH

Contact

Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.