Failed Spine Surgery Syndrome
Back surgery is often seen as a last resort for chronic pain sufferers, promising relief and restored mobility. However, for some patients, pain persists even after a successful procedure—a condition known as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). Fortunately, advancements in medical technology offer hope in the form of spinal cord stimulation (SCS).
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation is a minimally invasive treatment that involves implanting a small device near the spinal cord. This device sends electrical impulses to disrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. By doing so, SCS helps reduce pain perception, offering relief where traditional pain management methods have failed.
Types of Spine Surgeries That May Lead to Persistent Pain
Several types of spinal surgeries are commonly associated with post-surgical pain that may benefit from spinal cord stimulation, including:
Laminectomy – A procedure that removes part of the vertebra to relieve nerve pressure. Some patients still experience pain due to scar tissue formation or incomplete nerve decompression.
Spinal Fusion – A surgery to permanently connect two or more vertebrae, often leading to adjacent segment disease, where surrounding areas develop stress-related pain.
Discectomy – The removal of a herniated or damaged disc. Residual pain may persist if nerve irritation remains or disc degeneration continues.
Foraminotomy – A procedure to enlarge the space around nerve roots. If nerve compression persists or scar tissue develops, pain can continue.
Artificial Disc Replacement – Although designed to preserve motion, some patients may still experience persistent discomfort due to improper placement or ongoing degeneration.
How SCS Helps Patients After Back Surgery
For patients experiencing continued pain post-surgery, spinal cord stimulation provides a non-opioid, reversible solution. Benefits include:
Pain Reduction – SCS can significantly decrease chronic pain and improve quality of life.
Improved Mobility – With less pain, patients often find it easier to move and engage in daily activities.
Reduced Dependence on Medication – Many patients can reduce or eliminate their reliance on pain medications, including opioids.
Adjustable and Personalized Therapy – Modern SCS devices allow patients to customize their pain relief settings for optimal comfort.
Leading Spinal Cord Stimulation Options
Several medical companies specialize in cutting-edge SCS technology:
Nevro – Nevro’s HF10 therapy provides high-frequency stimulation without tingling sensations, a common side effect of traditional SCS.
Medtronic – Medtronic offers a variety of SCS solutions, including adaptive therapy that adjusts to a patient's movements.
St. Jude (Abbott) – Abbott’s Proclaim XR SCS system is known for its long battery life and effective pain relief features.
Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Right for You?
If you’ve undergone back surgery but still experience chronic pain, consulting a pain management specialist is essential. The team at Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers specializes in SCS therapy and can help determine if it's the right option for you.
Spinal cord stimulation has transformed the lives of many post-surgery patients, providing relief where other treatments have failed. If you’re struggling with ongoing back pain, exploring SCS could be the key to regaining comfort and mobility.
