Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is a type of chronic pain that occurs and persists after a patient has undergone any type of back surgery. If you experience pain after back surgery, it could be a normal part of healing and recovery. On the other hand, if the pain persists or worsens, or if you develop new pain, it could be FBSS.
What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?
FBSS is pain after back surgery that is unrelated to normal recovery. It might be the same or similar to pre-surgery pain that persists after the procedure. It can also be similar but worse pain or completely new pain.
Typically, the pain is in the same area of the back as before the surgery, although it may have worsened or otherwise changed. FBSS is complicated and varies significantly from one patient to the next. It is considered a type of chronic pain.
Causes of FBSS
Failed back surgery syndrome is a misleading name for a complicated condition that is not necessarily the result of a failed procedure. Possible causes include patient-related, surgery-related, and postoperative factors. There may be multiple factors involved, and in some cases, no clear cause.
Studies have found that patients with mental health conditions are more likely to experience FBSS. Smoking and obesity contribute to worse outcomes and recurrent back problems that cause pain.
Surgery-related causes include choosing the wrong procedure or inappropriate selection of a candidate for surgery. Operating at the wrong vertebra or not including all vertebrae involved in the initial pain can also lead to FBSS.
After a procedure, complications, like a nerve injury or infection, can cause ongoing pain. Surgery, even when performed successfully for the initial issue, can eventually lead to other painful issues, like spinal instability or disruption of other discs.
FBSS Symptoms vs. Back Surgery Recovery
Some postoperative pain is normal for back and other surgeries. It is important to monitor your pain and other symptoms after a procedure and notify your surgeon of anything unusual.
Your surgeon will explain what to expect in recovery, including any pain you might experience and how long it should last. It is typically normal to experience some stiffness and soreness. You may be more tired and will have limited mobility for a period.
The signs and symptoms of FBSS are similar but unique compared to normal recovery:
When To See a Doctor for Post-Surgery Pain
Talk to your surgeon if you have any concerns about your recovery. If your pain or other symptoms deviate from normal, if you continue to deal with pain, and if you cannot get relief or resume normal activities after several weeks, it is time to talk to your doctor.
What Is the Treatment for Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?
Your back and spine specialist can evaluate your symptoms and perform other diagnostic tests to determine if you have FBSS. FBSS is complicated, with many possible underlying causes. The more your doctor can identify the factors involved, the easier it is to choose an effective treatment.
Treatment for FBSS usually begins with conservative strategies:
Medications to reduce inflammation and manage pain
- Physical therapy
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Spinal cord stimulation
- Joint injections
When these conservative approaches fail to manage pain or improve mobility, you may be a candidate for additional surgery. Surgery is also considered when there is a clear cause that can be corrected with a specific procedure.
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome FAQ
How Do I Know if I Have Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?
A back and spine specialist can diagnose or rule out FBSS. You might have this condition if you have persistent, worsening, or new pain after back surgery that lasts longer than expected for normal recovery.
Can Failed Back Surgery Be Fixed?
FBSS is not necessarily caused by a failed procedure, despite its name. If, however, your back surgery did not completely correct a back issue, a surgeon can tell you if you are a good candidate for a revision procedure.
If you have concerns about pain after back surgery, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced back and spine specialists.
