Postlaminectomy syndrome

Postlaminectomy Syndrome – What Is It?

Spinal surgeries are commonly performed to correct structural problems or other issues that cause back pain. While most patients recover well and experience pain relief, some continue to suffer from persistent discomfort even after the surgical site has healed. This condition is known as Postlaminectomy Syndrome, sometimes referred to as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.

Symptoms of Postlaminectomy Syndrome

Symptoms depend on the area of the spine that was operated on:

Cervical Spine: If the neck area was treated, pain might persist in the neck and radiate into the arms.

Lumbar Spine: Surgery in the lower back may result in ongoing low-back pain that extends into the legs.

These symptoms can continue even after complete healing of the operated structures.

How Is It Treated?

Proper treatment begins with a detailed assessment, including your medical history, a physical examination, and imaging studies like MRI or CT scans. Once the source of the pain is better understood, various treatment options can be considered.

Non-surgical treatments may include:

• Nerve blocks or steroid injections for pain relief
• Physical therapy to improve function and reduce long-term discomfort
• Spinal cord stimulation when other methods fail to relieve symptoms

Other Potential Treatment Options:

Spinal Cord Stimulation

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Facet Joint Injections

Epidural Injections

Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluations

These approaches are tailored to the individual based on the nature and cause of their pain.