Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) Specialists in Austin, TX

What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (Post-laminectomy Syndrome)?

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) is defined as persistent lumbar spinal pain of unknown origin that either remains despite surgical intervention or appears after surgery in the same area. This pain may develop post-surgery or be exacerbated or insufficiently relieved by the procedure and is also known as Post-laminectomy Syndrome.

How Does Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Affect the Body?

FBSS affects the body similarly to chronic low back pain, which may have initially prompted surgery. The pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, radiating discomfort, especially in the legs. This can limit movement, impacting daily activities, work, and community involvement. Additionally, FBSS may disrupt sleep, affect mood, and cause significant daily distress.

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Causes of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

FBSS has a complex etiology, with several contributing factors:

Preoperative/Patient Factors: Anxiety, depression, obesity, smoking, radiologic findings (such as stenosis, fibrosis, or disc herniation), inappropriate surgical candidates, and multiple prior back surgeries.
Intraoperative Factors: Surgery at a single level when the pain spans multiple levels.‍
Postoperative Factors: Surgical complications, which may include spinal stenosis, instability, epidural fibrosis, or disruption of adjacent discs.

Symptoms of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Persistent low back pain despite surgery
New pain that appears after back surgery

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Treatment Options for Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Conservative Treatments:

Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Care
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), gabapentinoids, anticonvulsants, antidepressants

Interventional Treatments:

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Ready to take the first step towards a pain-free life? Schedule a consultation with Greater Austin Pain Center today, and let our experts help you find the right treatment plan for your back pain.

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Testimonials

"I am so relieved I could cry! Finally a pain specialist who listens, cares, and wants to help! Dr. Alan Silberberg has given me so much hope! As someone who has seen pain specialists for decades in different states, this is where you want to come. You NEED him in your life! My only regret is not coming in sooner."

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"The staff is very friendly and I was seen on time. The intake process was seamless and efficient. Dr. Jarzombeck is always very kind and thorough in her explanations. These folks are a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Greater Austin Pain Center and Dr. Jarzombeck!"

Kim D.

"Everyone is always very nice and courteous. Dr. Julia is amazing! He is friendly, kind and caring and so easy to talk with. All the office staff I have had contact with has always been courteous and kind as well. Would highly recommend coming here!"

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Treating Failed Back Surgery Syndrome in the Greater Austin Area

At Greater Austin Pain Center, our team of specialists has extensive experience managing Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). We offer a range of evidence-based conservative treatments tailored to each patient. Our comprehensive array of interventional procedures aims to relieve pain and improve quality of life after surgery. Managing FBSS requires a multidisciplinary approach, all of which is available at Greater Austin Pain Center.

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Am I at Risk of Developing Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Chronic lower back pain, which often leads to surgery, is a common condition affecting 51% to 84% of adults at some point in their lives. The likelihood of experiencing chronic lower back pain increases with age and is more prevalent among females. This type of pain can be debilitating and, in some cases, may lead individuals to seek surgical intervention as a solution.

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), however, affects a significant number of patients following back surgery, with an estimated 10% to 40% of individuals experiencing persistent or new pain after their procedure. The incidence of FBSS can be difficult to pinpoint due to its broad definition and the diverse factors that contribute to its development. Patients who undergo more complex back surgeries, such as lumbar fusions, are at a higher risk of developing FBSS, with failure rates ranging from 30% to 46%. Similarly, microdiscectomy procedures have a failure rate of 19% to 25%. Understanding these risks is essential for patients considering or recovering from back surgery.

Causes

Injury to the Wrist – fracture or dislocation
Diabetes, Rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, hypothyroidism
Repetitive hand and wrist motions- twisting, turning, bending, grasping
Strain from flexing the wrist for long periods of time as with use of keyboard and computer mouse
Family history

Symptoms

Pain, numbness, burning, or tingling in fingers or hand, except for the little finger
Weakness in the hand, dropping objects
Feel the need to “shake” out the hand to reduce symptoms
Electric shock sensation in fingers with use of hand and wrist
Pain and tingling may travel up the arm

Treatments

Corticosteroid Injections for the wrist
Wrist splinting or bracing
Nerve blocks

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome preventable?

Long-term complications from back surgery, whether avoidable or inevitable, may lead to the development of FBSS in some patients.

What are the symptoms of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Persistent low back pain despite surgery or new pain that develops after surgery. This pain is often chronic and can radiate to the legs.

Can Failed Back Surgery Syndrome be treated without further surgery?

Yes. At Greater Austin Pain Center, we offer a range of conservative and interventional treatment options that can provide lasting pain relief without the need for additional surgery.

(512) 298-1645

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Specialists in Austin, TX

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What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (Post-laminectomy Syndrome)?

How Does Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Affect the Body?