Post-Laminectomy Syndrome

Post-laminectomy syndrome, also known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) can cause chronic pain and increased difficulty with daily activities. If you suffer from chronic pain due to a failed back surgery, book an appointment at Vertrae® in Dayton, Ohio.

Led by board-certified neurosurgeon Kamal Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS, the practice offers several safe and effective treatments for chronic pain.

Learn more about your options by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Kamal Woods today!

What is post-laminectomy syndrome?

Post-laminectomy syndrome, also known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), refers to persistent or recurring pain following a laminectomy, a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves. While many patients experience significant relief from laminectomy, some may develop chronic pain after the surgery due to scar tissue formation, nerve damage, or spinal instability.

What causes post-laminectomy syndrome?

Several factors can contribute to post-laminectomy syndrome, including:

Scar tissue: Fibrosis (scar tissue) can form around the nerve roots after surgery, causing nerve compression and pain.
Spinal instability: Removal of too much bone or ligament during the surgery may cause instability in the spine, leading to pain and difficulty moving.
Nerve damage: In some cases, the nerves may have been damaged during surgery or were already severely compromised before the procedure.
Recurrent disc herniation: A new herniation in the same or adjacent disc can lead to recurring symptoms.

What are the symptoms of post-laminectomy syndrome?

The most common symptoms include:

Chronic pain: Persistent pain in the back, neck, arms, or legs that continues after the surgery.
Radicular pain: Pain that radiates down the legs or arms, similar to sciatica.
Muscle weakness or numbness: Ongoing nerve compression can cause weakness, tingling, or numbness in the affected areas.
Limited mobility: Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the spine, making daily activities difficult.

How is post-laminectomy syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves:

Medical history & physical exam: Dr. Woods will review your surgical history and assess your symptoms to determine the cause of the ongoing pain.
Imaging tests:
- MRI or CT scan: These imaging tools help detect scar tissue, recurrent disc herniation, or other causes of ongoing pain.
- X-rays: To check for spinal instability or alignment issues.

What treatments are available for post-laminectomy syndrome?

Treatment focuses on managing pain and addressing the underlying cause of the symptoms:

Spinal Cord Stimulation: Electrical stimulation or targeted injections may help control pain by blocking nerve signals.
Non-surgical treatments:
- Pain management: Medications, physical therapy, and steroid injections can help manage chronic pain.
Surgical treatments:
- Revision surgery: In cases of recurrent herniation or spinal instability, additional surgery may be needed to correct the problem.
- Spinal fusion: If instability is contributing to the pain, spinal fusion may be necessary to stabilize the affected area.