Individuals considering spinal surgery who are concerned about failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) should note that FBSS may be prevented. Accurate diagnosis is fundamental to prevention of all surgical complications, including FBSS. Failed back surgery syndrome is a term used to describe the outcome of one or more spinal operations that have not successfully relieved a patient of symptoms.

While surgery involves putting your trust in the hands of a surgeon, patients can also take steps to ensure a successful outcome. Patients should educate themselves with the assistance of health care professionals concerning potential risks, benefits and alternative treatments for their condition. Except in the most severe cases, surgery is elective and should not be rushed into. There is always time to do thorough research to make sure a particular procedure is the right option for you. The following information can help you better work with your doctor or specialist to ensure a return to normal, healthy activity.

Common causes of failed back surgery syndrome

FBSS can take many different forms. It may present as a return of chronic symptoms, reduced mobility, increased levels of pain or the inability to fully recuperate. Causes also vary, and can include the following:

• Initial misdiagnosis
• Formation of scar tissue after surgery
• Nerve damage or muscle trauma during surgery
• Rejection of hardware from a spinal fusions or prosthetics from artificial disc replacement

Ways to prevent failed back surgery syndrome

Any surgical procedure always carries some risk of complication. However, being an active participant in your treatment by taking the following steps can dramatically increase your chances of preventing this condition:

• Get multiple opinions on your diagnosis
• Elect the least invasive procedure possible to treat your condition
• Fully explore and exhaust conservative treatment methods before considering spine surgery
• Follow your post-surgical instructions exactly
• Become mobile and active as soon as possible after your procedure

Treatments for failed back surgery syndrome

If you believe you may be experiencing FBSS or if you are considering spinal surgery for the first time, contact USA Spine Care. Our outpatient minimally invasive spine surgery is an alternative to traditional procedures and the risks and lengthy recovery periods^{^} that come with them. Because our board-certified surgeons⁺ use a muscle-sparing technique that requires less than 1-inch incision to access the spine, our patients experience less risk of complications like infection, scarring and failed back surgery syndrome. If you are dealing with FBSS and surgical correction is required, our procedures may be able to help.

Contact us today for a no-cost MRI review* to see if you are a potential candidate for one our procedures.

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