What Is Revision Spine Surgery?

Revision spine surgery is performed in certain patients to correct problems following a previous spine surgery. It may be considered when the original procedure did not provide the expected relief, complications have developed, or a new spinal condition requires treatment.

Persistent back pain following spine surgery is sometimes referred to as persistent spinal pain syndrome (PSPS). The goal of revision spine surgery is to address the underlying problem, reduce pain, and help patients return to their normal activities.

What May Lead to Revision Spine Surgery?

Several factors may contribute to the need for revision spine surgery, including complications from a previous procedure, a surgery that did not achieve the expected results, an incorrect diagnosis, or changes in the spine over time.

Conditions that may require revision spine surgery include:

• Recurrent disc herniation
• Infection
• Pseudoarthrosis, or failure of a spinal fusion to heal properly
• Spinal hardware failure
• Degeneration of the spine
• Flat back syndrome
• Spinal instability
• Adjacent segment degeneration

Scar tissue formation following surgery may also contribute to ongoing symptoms.

Symptoms That May Lead to Revision Spine Surgery

Patients who may need revision spine surgery often experience persistent or recurring symptoms following an earlier spinal procedure. Symptoms vary depending on the underlying condition and may include:

• Chronic or recurring back or neck pain
• Pain that radiates into the arms or legs
• Numbness or tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty with movement or daily activities

Your spine surgeon will evaluate your symptoms, surgical history, and imaging studies to determine the source of the problem and recommend appropriate treatment.