What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Failed back surgery syndrome is a general term for new, persistent, or recurrent back or leg pain that occurs more than 6 months after spine surgery. A failed back surgery syndrome diagnosis requires that:

• The pain is at the same (or nearly the same) vertebral level as the surgery
• Imaging and exams don’t show any abnormality that would account for the pain
• You don’t have any other abnormalities that would require another spine surgery

Failed back surgery syndrome is sometimes called other names, such as “postlaminectomy syndrome,” “chronic postoperative pain,” or, more recently, “persistent spinal pain syndrome”. 

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Symptoms

Failed back surgery syndrome can be difficult to distinguish from other causes of back pain, and its symptoms may vary based on the cause of the pain. Symptoms of failed back surgery syndrome include:

• Back or leg pain that persists, reoccurs, or appears more than 6 months after spine surgery 
• Pain at or near the same level as the previous surgery
• “Pins and needles” sensations or radiating nerve pain in your legs
• Muscle weakness or loss of function
• Difficulty walking
• Depression or anxiety

Causes of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome can be caused and influenced by many different factors, including factors related to your original condition, your surgical history, and your overall health. Common causes include: 

• Unsuitable initial surgery, such as surgery at the wrong level or surgery that failed to address the full scope of the initial condition
• Mistakes during surgery
• Surgical complications, such as an infection or a hematoma (blood pooling) at the surgical site
• Altered biomechanics, such as a changed gait pattern after spinal fusion
• Progression or recurrence of the original condition, such as recurrent disc herniation
• Denervation-related muscular atrophy near the surgical site, which can occur as a result of prolonged manipulation of the muscles near the spine during surgery
• Epidural fibrosis, or the formation of adhesions in the epidural space (the area between your vertebrae and your spinal cord), which can be caused by spine surgery and can cause compression of the nerve roots in that area of the spine
• Psychological, social, or behavioral issues that interfere with the healing process, such as smoking, depression, anxiety, or lack of social support

How Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Diagnosed?

Diagnosing failed back surgery syndrome can be complicated, but effective treatment begins with identifying the underlying cause of the issue. At The Spine Pro, Dr. Melamed and his colleagues will use a thorough and holistic approach to identify the cause of your pain. Dr. Melamed will begin by taking a careful history of your back pain. He will ask about the type, location, and severity of your pain and how it affects your life. He may also perform a physical exam to evaluate your posture, gait, and physical function, and may recommend imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI imaging, to identify the source of your pain.

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Treatment Options in Beverly Hills

The symptoms of failed back surgery syndrome can be extremely frustrating, and the path to successful treatment is not always straightforward. At the Spine Pro in Beverly Hills, you’ll find comprehensive, compassionate, and holistic care for your back pain. Dr. Melamed is an expert at navigating the complexities of failed back surgery syndrome and will use a combination of treatment options to address your symptoms. Dr. Melamed specializes in holistic and noninvasive treatments for back pain. Depending on your symptoms, needs, and the cause of your failed back surgery syndrome, he may recommend strategies like physical therapy and nonopioid pain medications, alternative healing methods like yoga and acupuncture, and lifestyle or diet modifications. 

Dr. Melamed prioritizes noninvasive and minimally invasive treatments. If your failed back surgery syndrome does not respond to conservative treatments, he will carefully evaluate and discuss your surgical options. He is an expert in minimally invasive back surgery techniques and will work with you and your treatment team to find the best option for you.  

Recovery

Recovery from failed back surgery syndrome is possible. Recent studies recommend multidisciplinary strategies, incorporating psychological support, pain management, and noninvasive treatment strategies that avoid repeated surgeries. Careful and individualized management can reduce the pain and symptoms of failed back surgery syndrome and restore your function and quality of life. 

Dr. Melamed and his colleagues at The Spine Pro have the expertise to support your recovery here in Beverly Hills and will work closely with you throughout your recovery process to ensure the best possible outcome. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Melamed Today

If you’ve been suffering from failed back surgery syndrome, don’t wait any longer for relief. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Melamed today, and take the first step toward getting relief from your back pain.