Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), also known as post-laminectomy syndrome, is a condition defined as ongoing or new lumbar spinal pain following a previous spine operation. Patients who experience chronic pain after back surgery may find it challenging to come to terms with a lack of improvement after intervention.
We are committed to validating your experience and finding a definitive solution. Identify the source of your persistent spinal pain post-surgery and explore targeted treatments designed to finally restore your quality of life. Consult with us to receive an honest, comprehensive second opinion based on structural data.
What Causes Failed Back Surgery?
Scar tissue can form around the surgical site and compress delicate spinal nerves. Spinal instability or a failed fusion leaves the spine loose and weak. Additionally, adjacent segment disease can place new stress on surrounding spinal discs. Clinical data indicates that failed back surgery syndrome affects between 10% and 40% of all spine surgeries. Beyond the physical surgery, other factors also contribute to the development of FBSS.
Research shows that patient psychosocial factors are among the strongest predictive factors associated with patients developing FBSS after a procedure. Patients can run the risk of an incorrect initial diagnosis that misses the true source of pain.
Our team employs a rigorous approach to identifying the exact origin of your persistent pain after spine surgery. We may use advanced imaging to locate hardware failures or unhealed bone grafts that could cause back pain. We never recommend further procedures without clear visual and clinical evidence.
Our approach often starts nonsurgically with targeted physical therapy and specific nerve or anti-inflammatory medications. Interventional pain management, such as epidural steroid injections and nerve blocks, can be effective at calming irritated areas. Nerve stimulation can help to block pain signals before they reach the brain.
When a structural issue is found, we offer tailored revision procedures. Targeted microdecompression or foraminotomy is an effective solution for recurrent nerve compression. Artificial disc replacement or advanced stabilization can correct hardware failures or spinal instability. Consult with our team to identify the right approach for your case.
When Is Revision Surgery Appropriate?
We only advise repeat surgery when a clear, fixable structural cause is identified. Surgical revision for FBSS must be approached methodically, since it is warranted for distinct structural issues such as hardware malfunction, failed fusion, or clear spinal instability. You can consult our team for an honest second opinion to determine whether revision surgery is truly necessary.
Expected Outcomes for Your Recovery
Your recovery plan will focus on significant pain reduction and the restoration of daily function. Our targeted therapies aim to improve mobility and reduce reliance on heavy pain medications. Successful outcomes rely heavily on matching the exact diagnosis to the right failed back surgery treatment.
Schedule Your Second Opinion Today
Finding a long-lasting solution begins with being truly heard by a specialist. Partner with Dr. Melikian for a transparent, evidence-based evaluation.
Schedule a consult online or call (949) 806-6946 to book your case review.