Overview:
A laminectomy is a type of back surgery used to relieve compression on the spinal cord. This procedure is performed when less invasive treatments have failed. Unfortunately, up to 20% of Americans who undergo laminectomy each year experience some degree of persistent back pain. Post-laminectomy syndrome is a condition in which the patient continues to feel pain after undergoing a correctional laminectomy. Treatment for failed back surgery includes epidural steroid injection, trigger point injections, spinal cord stimulator, and more.
Symptoms:
The most common symptom patients with post-laminectomy syndrome often experience is the similar pain they had prior to surgery. Other signs and symptoms of post-laminectomy syndrome include:
- Dull and achy pain located in the spinal column following surgery
- Sharp, pricking and stabbing pain in the lower back
- Sharp pain in the legs
Causes:
The recurring pain followed by spinal surgery can be the result of many different factors. Post-laminectomy syndrome can be caused by:
- Epidural fibrosis (scarring)
- Returning disc herniation
- Progressive degeneration of the spine
- Spinal instability
- Incomplete removal of the lamina
- Infection in the disc space or epidural space
Treatment:
There are numerous treatment options for post-laminectomy syndrome. These include:
- Epidural steroid injection
- Medial branch block
- Pulsed radiofrequency neuromodulation
- Trigger point injections
- Spinal cord stimulator
- Intrathecal pump
We understand that each patient’s pain is unique. Therefore, the treatment recommended to each patient will be personalized to fit their condition and lifestyle. Our multi-disciplinary team of physicians offers advanced interventional and minimally-invasive techniques to help treat chronic, complex pain. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your concerns and what treatment options might be right for you!
