Failed Back Surgery Syndrome is an umbrella term that covers a group of conditions that cause persistent back pain (with or without sciatica) following one or more spine surgeries. An estimated 30-40% of back surgery patients can suffer from Failed Back Surgery syndrome in the long term. Each successive surgery after the first increase this estimate, with up to 85% of patient reporting Failed Back Surgery Syndrome symptoms after four surgeries.
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome symptoms are generally caused by residual scarring, inflammation, or anatomical abnormalities that alter the normal mechanics of the spine and create pressure on the nerves. A more comprehensive list of causes includes:
- Psychological and mood factors (depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders) and tobacco use may decrease response to surgical and non-surgical treatment
- Obesity increases risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications
- Scar tissue formation after back surgery
- Recurrent or persistent disc herniation
- Spinal stenosis
- Post operative infection
- Epidural post-operative fibrosis
Facet Syndrome Symptoms
Continued or chronic pain
New spine conditions
Pain above or below the treated level of the spine
Limited mobility
Inability to recuperate
Dull, aching pain in the neck, back or legs
Sharp or stabbing pain in the extremities
Spinal joint immobility
Spasms
Anxiety
Depression
Dependence on prescription drugs
Facet Syndrome Treatment
Physical therapy
Medication
Minimally Invasive Injections
Minimally Invasive Surgery
