Back pain can be debilitating, significantly impacting daily life. For some, surgery offers the promise of relief and a return to normalcy. However, not all spinal surgeries result in the desired outcome. When pain persists or worsens after surgery, it’s often referred to as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). Here, we’ll explore what FBSS is, its potential causes, symptoms, and the treatment options available to help patients regain their quality of life.
What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)?
FBSS is not a single condition but rather a term used to describe chronic back or leg pain that continues despite spinal surgery. It’s important to note that FBSS doesn’t mean the surgery was a failure in a technical sense; rather, it indicates that the desired pain relief was not achieved.
Causes of FBSS
Several factors can contribute to the development of FBSS, including:
- Incorrect Diagnosis: Sometimes, the underlying cause of back pain is misdiagnosed, leading to an ineffective surgical approach.
- Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can form around nerve roots, causing ongoing pain.
- Inadequate Decompression: If spinal nerves are not fully decompressed during surgery, pain may persist.
- Adjacent Segment Disease: Surgery can sometimes increase stress on the vertebrae or discs adjacent to the surgical site, leading to new pain.
- Infection or Hardware Problems: Post-surgical complications like infections or issues with surgical implants can also contribute to FBSS.
- Nerve Damage: In some cases, nerve damage caused by the initial condition or during surgery may lead to lingering pain.
Symptoms of FBSS
The symptoms of FBSS vary but often include:
- Persistent or worsening back pain
- Leg pain, tingling, or numbness
- Muscle spasms
- Limited mobility
- Difficulty sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods
These symptoms can significantly affect a patient’s physical and emotional well-being, leading to frustration and a diminished quality of life.
Treatment Options for FBSS
While dealing with FBSS can be challenging, there are several treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve function:
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
The first step in addressing FBSS is a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic spine specialist. This may include imaging studies, diagnostic injections, and a review of surgical history to identify the root cause of pain.
2. Physical Therapy
A tailored physical therapy program can help improve strength, flexibility, and posture, reducing pressure on the spine and alleviating pain.
3. Medications
Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medications can provide symptom relief.
4. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Options like epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, or radiofrequency ablation can target specific pain sources without the need for additional surgery.
5. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
Spinal cord stimulators are implantable devices that deliver electrical impulses to the spinal cord, disrupting pain signals and providing significant relief for many FBSS patients.
6. Revisional Surgery
In some cases, a second surgery may be necessary to correct issues like hardware failure or residual nerve compression. However, this option is typically considered only after conservative treatments have been exhausted.
If you’re experiencing persistent pain after back surgery, know that you’re not alone and that help is available. At CFRS, our team of compassionate and skilled orthopedic spine specialists is dedicated to diagnosing and treating FBSS with the most advanced techniques. We work closely with each patient to develop a personalized care plan aimed at relieving pain and restoring function. Contact us today at 732.380.1212 or online to schedule a consultation. Your journey to recovery starts here.
