Denton, TX-based spine surgeon Dr. Jamie Gottlieb delivers orthopedic care at clinics in Indiana and Texas. Working closely with patients to prevent postsurgical complications, Dr. Jamie Gottlieb also treats patients who experience failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS).
Despite the condition’s name, FBSS is not always caused by surgery. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of post-surgical complications. For example, patients with existing chronic back pain cannot benefit from a spinal surgery. To avoid this, surgeons review every patient’s medical history to ensure that invasive surgery is the best solution.
Other patient-related risk factors include smoking and obesity. Sometimes, symptoms return after surgery because of postsurgical conditions. For instance, a build-up of scar tissue or infection may result in symptoms such as radiating pain or weakness.
FBSS is usually addressed with a holistic treatment approach designed specifically for each patient. This includes physical therapy, pain management, and possibly, additional surgery.