Back surgery is often a last resort for those suffering from chronic pain, herniated discs or spinal stenosis. While many individuals experience relief following surgical intervention, others find that their pain persists or even worsens. This condition is commonly referred to as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). Understanding FBSS, its causes, and potential treatment options can help patients navigate their path to recovery.
What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome is not a specific medical diagnosis but rather a term used to describe a range of symptoms that persist after surgery intended to relieve back pain. The July 2023 Medicina medical journal uses the term “Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome (PSPS-T1/2)” to refer to FBSS. However, the authors clearly state that “PSPS-T1 specifically refers to cases where pain persists or worsens after spinal surgery due to the surgical intervention itself. In contrast, FBSS is a more general term that encompasses a variety of potential causes for persistent pain.”
FBSS can manifest in various ways, including persistent pain in the back or legs, numbness, weakness or a reduced quality of life. It can occur after any spinal surgery, including discectomy, laminectomy or spinal fusion.
Causes of Persistent Pain After Surgery
There are several reasons why individuals may still experience pain after undergoing back surgery. Not all of them are due to a “failure” on the part of your previous surgeon or a surgical technique. The possible causes include:
- Incorrect Diagnosis: If the original source of back pain was misidentified, surgery may not address the true problem, leaving patients with ongoing discomfort.
- Surgical Complications: Complications such as infection, nerve damage or continued instability in the spine can contribute to ongoing pain.
- Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can form around nerves and tissues, leading to irritation and pain.
- Adjacent Segment Disease: Surgery may relieve pain in one area, but it can place undue stress on neighboring segments of the spine, causing new issues.
- Psychological Factors: Chronic pain often has psychological components. Anxiety, depression and unrealistic expectations about surgery can exacerbate the perception of pain.
Recognizing the Signs of FBSS
Symptoms of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome can vary, but some common indicators include:
- Persistent or increased pain in the back or legs
- Difficulty performing daily activities
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Muscle weakness
- Changes in bowel or bladder function
If you experience any of these symptoms following surgery, it’s essential to consult an Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians provider for a thorough evaluation. We can recommend several treatment options to help relieve pain and restore mobility. In some cases, minimally invasive, endoscopic spine surgery (also known as “band-aid back surgery”) may be necessary to address complications or correct issues related to the initial procedure.
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) Treatment
Experiencing persistent back or spine pain after surgery can be incredibly frustrating and impactful on daily life. If you find yourself struggling with FBSS, remember that you are not alone, and there are options available. There are paths to recovery that can lead to an improved quality of life. Contact the nearest Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians clinic to schedule an exam and consultation.
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