What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) is a condition where a patient continues to experience chronic back or leg pain after undergoing spinal surgery. It does not mean the surgery failed technically; rather, it means the pain relief expected from the surgery did not occur or was temporary.
INTRODUCTION
Many patients are told surgery is the “final solution” for chronic back pain. However, a significant percentage of patients continue to experience persistent pain after procedures such as laminectomy, discectomy, or spinal fusion.
This condition is known as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.
Understanding why it occurs is critical before considering additional procedures.
Why Does Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Happen?
There are several reasons why pain may continue after surgery:
1. Scar Tissue Formation (Epidural Fibrosis)
Scar tissue can form around spinal nerves after surgery, creating ongoing irritation.
2. Persistent Disc Degeneration
Surgery may remove part of a disc, but it does not reverse degeneration.
3. Adjacent Segment Disease
Fusion surgeries change spinal mechanics, placing stress on nearby discs.
4. Nerve Damage
Long-standing compression may leave nerves hypersensitive even after decompression.
5. Misdiagnosis of the True Pain Source
Sometimes the true cause of pain was not fully addressed.
How Common Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?
Studies estimate that between 20% and 40% of spine surgeries result in persistent or recurring pain.
That means nearly 1 in 3 patients may continue experiencing symptoms after surgery.
Symptoms of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
• Chronic low back pain
• Burning or stabbing leg pain
• Numbness or tingling
• Weakness
• Pain that returns months or years after surgery
• Increased pain after spinal fusion
Why More Surgery Is Not Always the Answer
Many patients are told revision surgery is the next step.
However:
• Each surgery increases scar tissue
• Fusion increases stress on other discs
• Success rates decline with each procedure
Research shows outcomes often decrease significantly after second and third surgeries.
Non-Surgical Options for Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
For many patients, the goal should shift from structural removal to functional restoration.
Non-surgical approaches may include:
• Targeted spinal decompression
• Disc pressure reduction
• Circulation improvement to damaged tissue
• Nerve calming strategies
• Controlled mechanical unloading
In many cases, restoring disc hydration and reducing pressure may provide relief without additional surgery.
Can Spinal Decompression Help After Surgery?
In selected cases, non-surgical spinal decompression may help reduce internal disc pressure and improve nutrient exchange in remaining disc material.
However, not all post-surgical patients are candidates.
A detailed consultation and imaging review is necessary.
When Should You Seek a Second Opinion?
You should consider further evaluation if:
• Your pain never improved after surgery
• Pain returned months later
• You were told you need another surgery
• Your MRI still shows disc compression
• You want to avoid additional fusion
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Treatment in Henderson, NV
At Disc Centers of America – Henderson, we evaluate patients with persistent pain after surgery to determine if non-surgical disc-focused treatment options may be appropriate.
Every case is unique and requires careful evaluation before determining candidacy.
FAQ SECTION
What is the main cause of failed back surgery syndrome?
Persistent disc degeneration, scar tissue, and altered spinal mechanics are common contributors.
Can failed back surgery syndrome be cured?
There is no universal cure, but many patients can reduce pain through non-surgical treatment strategies.
Is another surgery recommended for FBSS?
Additional surgery may be recommended in specific cases, but outcomes tend to decline with repeat procedures.
How do you treat back pain after surgery?
Treatment may include decompression, physical rehabilitation, nerve stabilization, and disc-focused therapies depending on individual evaluation.
Links
Author: Dr. Darrell C. Swolensky, D.C.
Clinic: Disc Centers of America – Henderson
Location: Henderson, Nevada
Specialty: Non-Surgical Disc Treatment
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