Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) can be a frustrating and disheartening experience for patients who have undergone microdiscectomy procedures. When the expected relief does not materialize, it is natural to feel discouraged and uncertain about the future. However, it is important to remember there are still options available to help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life. In this article, you will learn what comes next after a failed microdiscectomy, including treatment options and strategies for recovery.
Understanding Failed Microdiscectomy
A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by a herniated disc. While this procedure is often successful, there are cases where patients continue to experience pain or other symptoms after surgery. This condition is known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) or post-laminectomy syndrome.
Common Causes of Failed Microdiscectomy
Several factors can contribute to the failure of a microdiscectomy:
- Recurrent disc herniation - This is the most common cause of failed microdiscectomy, occurring when the same disc herniates again and compresses the nerve root.
- Inadequate decompression - If the surgeon does not remove enough disc material to relieve pressure on the nerve root, symptoms may persist.
- Scar tissue formation - The body’s natural healing process can produce scar tissue around the nerve root or disc space, leading to chronic pain and stiffness.
- Nerve damage - In rare cases, the nerve root may be injured during surgery, causing temporary or permanent loss of function or sensation.
- Other underlying conditions - Factors such as spinal stenosis, facet joint arthritis, or sacroiliac joint dysfunction may contribute to ongoing pain.
Evaluating Your Condition
If you are experiencing persistent pain or symptoms after a microdiscectomy, it is crucial to seek a thorough evaluation from your healthcare team. This may involve:
- Communicating with your surgeon - Schedule an appointment to discuss the outcome of your surgery and any ongoing complications.
- Additional diagnostic tests - Your doctor may recommend imaging studies or other tests to identify the source of your pain.
- Seeking a second opinion - Do not hesitate to consult with another specialist for a fresh perspective on your condition.
Treatment Options for Failed Microdiscectomy
There are several approaches to managing pain and improving function after a failed microdiscectomy. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and circumstances.
Conservative treatments
Before considering additional surgical interventions, many doctors recommend exploring conservative treatment options:
- Physical therapy - A tailored rehabilitation program can strengthen your core muscles, increase flexibility, and enhance overall spine health.
- Pain management techniques - This may include medications, nerve blocks, or epidural steroid injections to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
- Lifestyle modifications - Maintaining a healthy weight, improving posture, and making ergonomic adjustments can contribute to better spine health.
- Mind-body techniques - Practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help you manage pain and improve your overall wellbeing.
Minimally invasive procedures
If conservative treatments prove ineffective, your doctor may recommend minimally invasive procedures to address your pain:
- Radiofrequency ablation - This technique uses heat to deactivate nerve fibers responsible for transmitting pain signals.
- Spinal cord stimulation - An implantable device sends mild electrical signals to the spinal cord, masking pain signals and providing relief.
- Regenerative medicine - Emerging treatments such as stem cell therapy or platelet-rich plasma injections may promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
Revision surgery
In some cases, revision surgery may be necessary to address the underlying cause of persistent pain. However, it is important to note that the success rates for subsequent surgeries tend to decrease with each procedure. Potential revision surgeries may include:
- Repeat microdiscectomy - If a recurrent disc herniation is identified, a second microdiscectomy may be performed.
- Spinal fusion surgery - This procedure may be recommended to stabilize the spine and prevent further disc herniation.
- Artificial disc replacement - In select cases, replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one may be an option.
Coping with Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
Dealing with persistent pain after a failed microdiscectomy can be emotionally challenging. It is essential to develop coping strategies and seek support to maintain your mental and emotional wellbeing:
- Join a support group - Connecting with others who have experienced similar challenges can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice.
- Set realistic expectations - Understand that recovery may take time and involve a combination of treatments. Celebrate small victories along the way.
- Practice self-care - Engage in activities that promote overall wellbeing, such as gentle exercise, relaxation techniques, and maintaining a healthy sleep schedule.
- Seek professional help - If you are struggling with depression or anxiety related to your condition, consider talking to a mental health professional.
Preventing Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
While it is not always possible to prevent FBSS, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Choose an experienced surgeon - Select a surgeon with expertise in microdiscectomy procedures and a track record of successful outcomes.
- Follow postoperative instructions - Adhere to your doctor’s guidelines for activity levels and rehabilitation to promote proper healing.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle - Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco use can contribute to better spine health and overall recovery.
- Address underlying health conditions - Manage any preexisting conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, that may impact your recovery.
Experiencing a failed microdiscectomy can be discouraging, but it is important to remember that there are still options available for pain relief and improved quality of life. By working closely with your healthcare team, exploring various treatment options, and maintaining a positive outlook, you can navigate the challenges of FBSS and work toward a better outcome. Remember every patient’s journey is unique, and with persistence and the right approach, it is possible to find effective strategies for managing your pain and regaining function.
Even though microdiscectomy surgery is a common and generally quite successful procedure, a hole is frequently left in the outer wall of the disc. In fact, patients with these large holes in their discs are more than twice as likely to reinjure themselves by experiencing what is known as a reherniation. These reherniations often require additional surgery or even fusions. Fortunately, there is a new treatment specifically designed to close the large holes that are often left in spinal discs after discectomy surgery. Barricaid is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.
If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment or how to get access to Barricaid, ask your doctor or contact us today.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.