Going through spinal surgery is a major life event, often accompanied by months of difficult rehabilitation. But what happens when the surgery doesn't work, or the pain returns months later? Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) is a devastating reality for many, but advanced spinal decompression is offering new hope for lasting relief.
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome is a clinical term used to describe the condition of patients who have not had a successful result with back surgery or spine surgery, and have experienced continued pain after surgery. It is surprisingly common; studies suggest that up to 40% of patients who undergo open back surgery experience persistent or recurrent pain.
Why Do Back Surgeries Fail?
Spinal surgery, such as a laminectomy, discectomy, or fusion, is designed to alter the physical structure of the spine to remove pressure on nerves. However, these surgeries can fail for several reasons:
- Adjacent Segment Disease: When two vertebrae are fused together, it places extra stress on the discs immediately above and below the fusion, causing those discs to rapidly degenerate and herniate.
- Scar Tissue Formation: Surgery inherently causes trauma to the tissues. Thick scar tissue (epidural fibrosis) can form around the nerve roots, binding them and causing severe, chronic pain.
- Recurrent Herniation: Even after a successful discectomy, the remaining disc material can re-herniate if the underlying mechanical stress on the spine is not resolved.
How Decompression Helps Post-Surgical Patients
Many patients with FBSS are told their only option is a second (or third) surgery, or a lifetime of pain management injections. DRX9000 Spinal Decompression offers a non-invasive alternative.
Decompression therapy gently stretches the spine, creating negative pressure within the discs. For post-surgical patients (especially those suffering from Adjacent Segment Disease), this therapy is vital. It relieves the excessive pressure placed on the healthy discs surrounding a fusion, rehydrating them and preventing further herniations. Furthermore, the gentle stretching can help mobilize the spine, reducing the stiffness and nerve compression caused by post-surgical scar tissue.
Clinical Evidence and Credibility
While patients with extensive surgical hardware must be evaluated carefully, clinical evidence supports the use of computerized spinal decompression for many patients with previous back surgeries. FDA-cleared decompression systems like the DRX9000 are equipped with highly sensitive computer feedback mechanisms that ensure the treatment is safe, gentle, and effective, even for spines that have been previously altered by surgery. It provides a scientifically validated, conservative option before considering revision surgery.
Compassionate Care in Longview, TX
At Woods Spine & Wellness in Longview, TX, Dr. Tucker Woods and Dr. Lance Potter understand the frustration and despair that comes with a failed back surgery. We take a careful, comprehensive approach to evaluating post-surgical patients in East Texas. Our goal is to exhaust every advanced, non-invasive option available to help you find the relief you were hoping for from your initial surgery. Learn more about our specialized care on our What We Treat page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do spinal decompression if I have rods and screws in my back?
It depends on the specific type and location of your surgical hardware. Our doctors will perform a thorough review of your surgical history and recent imaging to determine if the DRX9000 is safe and appropriate for your specific case.
How long do I need to wait after surgery to try decompression?
Generally, patients must wait at least 6 months post-surgery to ensure the surgical site has fully healed before beginning any decompression therapy. A consultation is required to verify your readiness.
Will decompression break up my surgical scar tissue?
While it cannot dissolve scar tissue, the gentle, repeated stretching of the spine helps improve mobility and can reduce the binding effect that epidural fibrosis has on the nerve roots, leading to significant pain relief.