
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome/Post laminectomy Syndrome
1746877954
Postlaminectomy syndrome, or Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), is when back or leg pain continues after spinal surgery meant to relieve it. Causes include scar tissue around nerves, residual nerve compression, instability, or new disc and spine problems at the next "adjacent level." Diagnosis typically involves reviewing surgical history, a physical exam, and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to check for ongoing compression, scar tissue, or structural issues causing pain.
Symptoms include persistent or new pain in the back, legs, or arms, along with numbness, tingling, or weakness that can hinder daily activities. Limited mobility or difficulty standing for long periods can also occur.
Treatment aims to reduce pain and restore function. Medications like anti-inflammatories, nerve pain relievers, or muscle relaxants manage discomfort. Physical therapy improves strength and flexibility. Targeted injections like epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks may ease inflammation and provide longer-lasting pain relief. For cases unresponsive to conservative treatments, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may manage chronic nerve pain.
If imaging reveals issues like instability or persistent nerve compression, revision surgery might be considered, but more surgery doesn't always relieve pain.
For those preferring non-surgical options, regenerative medicine treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or biologic therapies using cells from fat or bone marrow, can promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Managing postlaminectomy syndrome often involves a multidisciplinary approach. Working with specialists can enhance function and quality of life. Talk to our team to find the best treatment plan for you.
FAQs
How is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosis of FBSS involves reviewing the patient's surgical history, conducting a physical examination, and utilizing imaging tests like MRI or CT scans. These tests help identify any ongoing nerve compression, scar tissue formation, or structural issues contributing to the patient's pain and symptoms.
What are the risks of leaving Postlaminectomy Syndrome untreated?
If untreated, Postlaminectomy Syndrome can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and potentially permanent nerve damage. It may also result in dependency on pain relief medications. A multidisciplinary approach to management, involving medical, physical, and psychological support, is often crucial in improving outcomes and quality of life for patients with this syndrome.
What causes Postlaminectomy Syndrome?
The causes of Postlaminectomy Syndrome can include the formation of scar tissue around spinal nerves, residual or new nerve compression, spinal instability, and the development of new disc problems at adjacent spinal levels. Other factors may involve surgical errors or issues, such as incomplete removal of problematic tissue or surgery at the wrong spinal level. Patient factors like smoking and psychological stress can also influence outcomes.
What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) or Postlaminectomy Syndrome?
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), also known as Postlaminectomy Syndrome, refers to the persistent or recurring pain in the back or legs following spinal surgery intended to alleviate that pain. It is not a specific medical condition, but a term used to describe the continued pain or new symptoms that some patients experience post-surgery.
What treatment options are available for Postlaminectomy Syndrome?
Treatment for Postlaminectomy Syndrome focuses on pain management and improving function. Options include medications like anti-inflammatories and nerve pain relievers, physical therapy to enhance strength and flexibility, and targeted injections such as epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation. In certain cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, interventions like spinal cord stimulation or revision surgery may be considered. Regenerative medicine treatments are also an option for those preferring non-surgical approaches.