Reasons To Consider Revision Lumbar Surgery

By their nature, surgical procedures bear a possible risk of complications. Even with the most advanced surgical equipment and highly qualified surgeons, a positive outcome is not always assured. The success rate for spine surgery, for example, is still estimated to be about 50%, depending on a range of factors, including your lifestyle, weight, and general health. As a result, between 10-40% of patients still suffer from prolonged pain, a condition known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS). If you have had spine surgery recently and are experiencing any of the concerns listed below, certified neurosurgeon Dr. George Kakoulides may consider you to undergo revision spine surgery. Read on for a deeper insight into when revision lumbar surgery West Islip might be necessary.

Recurring Disc Herniation

A recurrent disc herniation is generally a repeat of the issue that led to the operation in the first place. The surgical treatment clinically referred to as discectomy is designed to relieve strain on the spinal nerve root by eliminating injured disc pieces.

Disc herniation is most common in the neck and lower back (cervical and lumbar portions of the spine), which are the most flexible. Their flexibility renders them particularly prone to wear and strain, resulting in fluid volume loss.

If your disc herniation has impacted your nerves, you may experience acute, relentless pain extending to your leg or arm on one side of the body. You could also experience the following signs and symptoms:

  • Problems getting up from a seated position
  • Bad posture
  • Tingling, burning, or numbness (generally triggered by a compressed nerve)
  • Muscle weakness that might make it difficult to lift heavy objects
  • Slow reaction times
  • Discomfort that worsens while seated (though walking and standing could worsen it as well)

Infection At The Surgical Site

Whenever bacteria or fungus invade the tissues of the spine, it is known as a spinal infection. Whereas uncommon, these infections do sometimes occur, and they could be devastating due to the sluggish development of symptoms, which might cause a delayed diagnosis.

The following are some of the telltale signs of a spinal infection:

  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Back pain that becomes worse over time and restricts the range of motion
  • Inflammation around the infected area
  • Legs and arms tingling, numbness, or weakness
  • Tenderness in the back or neck (early onset)

Other Issues That Necessitate A Revision Surgery

George Kakoulides, MD, could also suggest revision lumbar surgery when you develop other difficulties, including:

  • If you have been provided a new spinal diagnosis (aside from the one that prompted your first lumbar surgery)
  • When you have adjacent segment disease, a disorder wherein two or more bones interlock together
  • If you have issues with the implanted hardware (when the implant shifts or gets loose)
  • When your bones do not heal into one, solid bone, also known as insufficient solid bone fusion

Nobody should have to live with the consequences of a failed spine surgery. To obtain the relief you deserve, reach out to George Kakoulides, MD. At his private practice, Dr. Kakoulides provides top-level revision lumbar surgery that matches your unique concerns. Whether you require spinal fusion, re-exploration, decompression surgery, or more, he can help. Call the office near you or book an appointment online today to get started on your relief journey.