What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatments

Do I Have Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Unfortunately, not all back surgeries are successful in relieving patients’ pain. Failed Back Surgery Syndrome or FBSS occurs when a patient who has opted for a surgical back pain intervention has new or continuing pain in their back or legs after healing from the surgery.

failed back pain syndrome surgery

What Are The Symptoms?

The symptoms of FBSS are:

New or continuing pain after surgery

Failure to improve after rehabilitation therapy

Persistent pain despite pain medications

What Are The Causes of FBSS?

Even if you develop this condition, it does not necessarily imply a problem with the original surgery. In FBSS, scar tissue from the surgery can build-up and compress or stretch nerves, ligaments and muscles, resulting in new or persistent pain. In some cases, the patient may see their primary pain reduced but have a new or progressive back pain appear during the healing process.

How Do I Get Diagnosed With Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Dr. de Lotbinière is a leading neurosurgeon who uses more than thirty years of experience to manage complex and chronic pain conditions. He will review your medical, surgical, and treatment history as well as perform diagnostics to confirm a correct diagnosis.

Alain de Lotbiniere NY Surgeon

What Are My Treatment Options?

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) may be exacerbated by additional invasive surgeries. However, there are medicinal, lifestyle, and options available for patients suffering from FBSS, including:

  • Injection Therapy
  • Nerve Blocks
  • Physical Therapy

How Do I Move Forward?

If you have new or recurrent pain after back surgery, turn to Dr. Alain de Lotbinière for help. A leading neurosurgeon in both New York and Connecticut, he has the expertise to address complex pain disorders through advanced treatments to give his patients the best possible outcomes. Book a consultation today at either of his offices in White Plains, NY or Stamford, CT.