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Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

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Integrating Pain Treatment into Your Spine Practice

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Abstract

Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is defined as persistent or recurring low back pain following one or more spine surgeries. It is part of the worldwide epidemic of chronic pain which is estimated to affect 37 % of the general adult population with a 60–80 % lifetime prevalence. These numbers are only projected to rise as our elderly population expands, demonstrating the extent to which chronic low back pain impacts our society. The etiology of FBSS is driven by a complex relationship of not only biological and psychological factors, but also social and economic. These factors can be broken down into pre-, intra-, and postoperative categories. It is essential, however, that the correct procedure be selected for the appropriately screened and properly diagnosed patient. A thorough history and physical exam along with advanced imaging including MRI with gadolinium, flexion/extension X-rays, and CT can be beneficial in helping to diagnose FBSS.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. AMC Neurosurgery Group, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Ave., Albany, NY, 12208, USA

    Youngwon Youn B.A., Heather C. Smith B.A. & Julie G. Pilitsis M.D., Ph.D.

Authors
  1. Youngwon Youn B.A.
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  2. Heather C. Smith B.A.
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  3. Julie G. Pilitsis M.D., Ph.D.
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Correspondence to Julie G. Pilitsis M.D., Ph.D. .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. St. Luke’s University Health Network, Neurosurgery, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA

    Steven M. Falowski

  2. Summit Pain Alliance, Santa Rosa, California, USA

    Jason E. Pope

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Youn, Y., Smith, H.C., Pilitsis, J.G. (2016). Failed Back Surgery Syndrome. In: Falowski, S., Pope, J. (eds) Integrating Pain Treatment into Your Spine Practice. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-27796-7_3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-27796-7_3

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

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