Failed Back Surgery

Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) refers to the development of chronic pain or othersymptoms after undergoing one or more spinal surgeries. The exact cause of FBSS is not always clear, but it is thought to be related to a combination of factors such as:

Causes

Some common causes of failed back surgery include:

Incomplete or incorrect diagnosis: The initial diagnosis may have been inaccurate, and the surgery was performed on the wrong level or target.

Poor surgical technique: The surgery may have caused additional damage to the spine or other nearby structures, such as nerves or blood vessels.

Scar tissue formation: The formation of scar tissue in the spine can cause compression or irritation of nerves, leading to chronic pain.

Hardware failure: The hardware used during the surgery, such as screws or plates, may fail, causing pain or instability.

Symptoms

The symptoms of failed back surgery can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition, but common symptoms include:

  • Chronic pain in the back or legs that persists despite surgery.

  • Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet.

  • Reduced mobility or difficulty performing daily activities.

  • Depression or anxiety related to chronic pain.

TREATMENTS

Treatment for failed back surgery depends on the cause and severity of the condition, but common treatments include:

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications such as opioids, muscle relaxants, or antidepressants may be used to manage pain.

Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve strength and mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further injury.

Nerve blocks: Injection of medications or nerve blocks can help to temporarily relieve pain.

Spinal cord stimulation: This involves the implantation of a device that delivers electrical impulses to the spine, which can help to reduce pain signals to the brain.

Revision surgery: In some cases, additional surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying problem or remove any hardware that is causing pain or instability.

If you are experiencing symptoms of FBSS, it is important to talk to a doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.