Failed Back Surgery
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What is a failed back surgery?
Failed back surgery, often known as failed back surgery syndrome, describes new or persistent pain following spinal surgery to relieve leg or back discomfort. It is both the most unpleasant and aggravating experience. People feel better immediately after surgery, but the condition worsens. It does not imply that the surgery went poorly or that the surgeon did not perform properly, but it occurs for various reasons.
What causes failed back surgery?
The most prevalent cause of unsuccessful back surgery is pseudoarthrosis, which occurs when the spinal fusion fails. In spinal fusion surgery, the spine is simply stabilised and then fused; however, in some people, the fusion does not occur, and the screws/rods used to stabilise the spine loosen over time, causing severe back or leg discomfort.
Another reason is damage to the spine level immediately next to the previously affected level. The spine has several levels; it is possible that a patient has a successful surgery at one level but has a problem at another level of the spine; this may result in unsuccessful back surgery despite a good operation at another level.
Common symptoms
The most prevalent symptom is chronic pain, which can be subtle or acute and occur in the back, neck, or legs. Neurological symptoms such as weakness and tingling sensations also emerge. The pain went from one body area to another—limited neck and lower back motion.
Headache develops following a neck (cervical) procedure, indicating a nerve issue. Severe symptoms include:
- Difficulty walking
- Electric-like pain in the lower body
- Fever or vomiting
- Weight loss
- Loss of bowel or bladder function
Diagnosis of a failed back surgery in Dubai
Even if someone experiences discomfort after 5-10 years of surgery, a diagnosis is required; the underlying causes must be found. The surgeon will ask several questions and do some tests to help with the diagnosis. All necessary diagnostic equipment should be available at the hospital.
- Complete evaluation of medical history.
- Your psychological health will be assessed to rule out anxiety, depression, or other psychological disease with heightened pain sensitivity.
- The surgeon will then physically examine and touch and feel various spine regions to detect any discomfort or spasm.
- You may be instructed to engage in various physical activities such as twisting, walking, etc.
- Neurological evaluations, as well as a review of current symptoms.
- Validating the diagnosis via imaging scans such as X-rays, CT scans, bone scans, etc.
Treating failed back surgery in Dubai
The doctor will devise a treatment plan to address the pain and symptoms after the diagnosis. The treatment usually begins with physical therapy or another form of exercise.
You may be prescribed medications such as NSAIDs, Acetaminophen, Cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitors, Tramadol, etc.
Interventional procedures such as caudal ESI, percutaneous adhesiolysis, and so on can be recommended.
Neuromodulators like SCS are the most effective long-term pain treatment in FBSS patients.
If the above techniques do not work, the surgeon will resort to surgical procedures and may require reoperation.
Consult Dr EL Toukhy for back pain treatment in Dubai
Dr Mohamed EL Toukhy is a leading expert in chronic back pain treatment in Dubai. With advanced diagnosis and expert care, he will guide you toward the right treatment option. As a renowned back pain doctor in Dubai, Dr EL Toukhy has extensive experience and can help you.