Failed Back Surgery

Failed Back Syndrome (FBS) is continued or progressive pain despite having undergone a previous surgical procedure. Many factors can contribute to FBS. The original problem may continue or recur when:

• The original problem may not have been fully diagnosed.
• The original problem was not fully addressed at the time of the initial surgery. Frequently, this results in persistent nerve root compression, instability, or non-union of a fusion.
• Post-operative or new changes to the spine.

 

Other conditions may contribute to ongoing complaints. These include depression, anxiety, and/or deconditioning. 

 

Treatment

Patients with Failed Back Syndrome should be reevaluated and treated in an interdisciplinary setting where healthcare professionals work together toward a common goal. Treatments range from non-surgical to surgical depending on the causes of pain.

 

If you think you have this type of pain, talk to us to learn the best treatment for the condition.

 

Learn more about our approach to treatment in our Treatments/ Patient Services section.

Learn when to see a spine surgeon in our Patient section.