Asian Spine J.  2018 Apr;12(2):372-379. 10.4184/asj.2018.12.2.372.

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: A Review Article

• Daniell JR
• Osti OL

• KMID: 2410859
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4184/asj.2018.12.2.372

Abstract

Postsurgical spine syndrome is becoming an increasingly common challenge for clinicians who deal with spinal disorders owing to the expanding indications for spinal surgery and the aging world population. A multidisciplinary approach is most appropriate for patients who are unlikely to benefit from further formal surgical intervention. Anticonvulsant medications are effective in managing neuropathic pain after surgery, whereas opioids are rarely beneficial. Neuromodulation via a surgically implanted dorsal column neurostimulator is gaining popularity owing to its substantial superiority over conventional medical management and/or further surgical intervention. However, considering that prevention is always better than cure, spinal surgeons need to be well aware of the many poor prognostic indicators for spinal surgery, particularly psychosocial overlay.

Keyword

Postsurgical spine syndrome; Failed back surgery syndrome; Repeat spinal surgery; Chronic pain management; Neuromodulation; Spinal cord stimulation

MeSH Terms

Aging
Analgesics, Opioid
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome*
Humans
Neuralgia
Spinal Cord Stimulation
Spine
Surgeons
Analgesics, Opioid