Failed Back Surgery

If your pain continues or worsens after back surgery, there are other pain management options available. At the OmniSpine Pain Management, Andrew Morchower, MD, MPH, manages failed back surgery syndrome with treatment options that provide relief. To request an appointment, use the online tool or call the office nearest you in Frisco or Mesquite, Texas.

What is failed back surgery syndrome?

Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is a general term used to describe a spinal procedure that doesn’t provide pain relief.

There are several reasons back surgery may be unsuccessful, including:

• Scar tissue development during the healing process
• A treatment that can’t effectively resolve your condition
• Recurrent disc herniation after surgery
• Technical errors during the procedure
• Misidentification of the pain source

In 30-40% of back surgeries, people experience some type of complication, but the OmniSpine Pain Management offers solutions.

What are the symptoms of failed back surgery syndrome?

In addition to pain, FBSS has several symptoms, including:

• Reduced or restricted mobility
• Muscle spasms in the back
• New pain in a different location
• Radiating numbness or pain into the lower legs
• Depression, anxiety, and sleeplessness

Failed back surgery syndrome can also lead to a dependence on pain medication.

How is failed back surgery syndrome diagnosed?

To ensure your symptoms aren’t part of the natural healing process after back surgery, it’s essential to work closely with an expert provider. As an expert in pain management, Dr. Morchower apply his expertise to reach an accurate diagnosis of your pain.

During your appointment, Dr. Morchower performs a full medical, musculoskeletal evaluation, or surgical examination. Based on your symptoms and surgical history, he might recommend tests like X-rays, MRIs, neuropsychological exams, or electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies.

How is pain from failed back surgery syndrome treated?

Depending on your failed back surgery symptoms, Dr. Morchower might suggest treatments like anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and pain. Corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks to minimize inflammation and pain at the source.

To find out how the OmniSpine Pain Management can help you manage chronic pain associated with failed back surgery syndrome, call or request an appointment online.