If you’ve had spine surgery, but your symptoms persist, it’s possible that you’ve had a failed surgery. If that happens, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. You may be eligible for revision spine surgery, a specialty of Craig C. Callewart MD.
What Is Revision Spine Surgery?
Revision spine surgery is a type of surgery performed on patients who have previously undergone spinal surgery, but still experience persistent or recurrent pain, weakness, numbness, or other symptoms. This type of surgery aims to address issues that were not resolved by the initial surgery or that have developed over time due to natural degeneration or other factors. Revision spine surgery is a complex procedure that requires careful planning and execution by a skilled and experienced spine surgeon, as it may involve removing scar tissue, correcting spinal alignment, or stabilizing the spine with additional hardware. Despite its risks and challenges, revision spine surgery can help patients achieve better pain relief, mobility, and quality of life.
Why is Revision Surgery Spine Performed?
Revision spine surgery is performed for a variety of reasons, including:
- Persistence of symptoms: Patients who have had previous spine surgery may continue to experience pain, weakness, or numbness, which can be indicative of a residual or recurrent problem that requires revision surgery.
- Degenerative changes: Over time, the spinal structures can naturally degenerate, leading to the development of new problems that require surgical intervention.
- Failure of previous surgery: Occasionally, the initial surgery may not have been successful, resulting in the need for revision surgery to address the underlying issue.
- Complications from the initial surgery: Some patients may experience complications from their initial surgery, such as infection or hardware failure, that require revision surgery.
- Development of new conditions: Patients may develop new spinal conditions that require surgical intervention, such as spinal stenosis or herniated discs, even after a previous surgery.
Revision spine surgery requires careful evaluation and planning to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.
What Should I Expect After Revision Spine Surgery?
After revision spine surgery, the recovery process may vary depending on the extent and complexity of the surgery, as well as the patient’s overall health and condition. Here are some general expectations:
- Pain management: Patients can expect to experience some degree of pain after revision spine surgery. Your doctor will prescribe medications to manage pain, which may include opioids or non-opioid pain relievers.
- Hospital stay: Depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s condition, they may need to stay in the hospital for a few days or longer.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy is an important part of recovery after revision spine surgery. Patients will likely be required to undergo a rehabilitation program to help restore strength, mobility, and function.
- Restrictions on activities: Patients will need to avoid bending, lifting, or twisting for a certain period of time after surgery, as these activities can put stress on the spine and impede the healing process.
- Follow-up appointments: Patients will need to attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and attend all appointments to ensure the best possible outcome after your revision spine surgery.
FAQs About Revision Spine Surgery
Can you have spine surgery twice?
Yes, it is possible to have spine surgery more than once, and it is not uncommon for patients to undergo revision spine surgery. Revision spine surgery is typically performed for patients who have previously undergone spinal surgery but still experience persistent or recurrent pain, weakness, numbness, or other symptoms.