By Ann Butenas / EmpowHer Writer
Many people are often taken aback by complications that can result from any type of surgery. Back surgery is no exception. A post-operative back surgery syndrome, commonly referred to as Failed Back Syndrome (FBS), is a condition noted by continual pain that follows back surgery.
Known in medical circles as post-laminectomy syndrome, the patient continues to have persistent pain in the back and in the legs following back surgery. According to www.wisegeek.com, physicians take these symptoms seriously, as they could be indicators of something that could impede the post-operative recovery period.
According to Wikipedia.org, some common symptoms associated with FBS may include a dull, aching pain through the back or through the legs. The extremities might also experience a sharp, pricking, or stabbing pain.
Among the possible reasons for Failed Back Syndrome, or FBS, is lingering inflammation of some sort. Perhaps some pressure is being exerted upon one or more of the nerves along the spinal column. If this appears to be the case, the doctor can usually prescribe a medicinal regimen to reduce the pressure and alleviate the discomfort.
FBS may also result from an unrelated health problem that has been exacerbated in the post-operative phase. Two such problems can be diabetes and autoimmune disorders. These issues can impede the healing process and lead to the chronic pain that the patient is experiencing. Two options potentially exist to deal with these issues. Either a nerve block may be used, or the physician will prescribe a medication to relieve the pain provided such medication will not have a negative reaction with any other medications the patient may currently be taking.
If the patient is a smoker, this may increase his or her chances for failed back syndrome. Studies have shown that tobacco use, which contributes to vascular disease, does cheat the body of its natural abilities to heal from surgery and can result in prolonged periods of pain. If the patient attempts to either reduce or even quit the smoking habit prior to surgery, the chances for FBS can be diminished significantly.
Aside from the anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by the physician to the patient to relieve the FBS symptoms, the patient may also be administered anti-depressants or pain killers. However, in order for the patient to receive the most effective treatment, he or she must maintain an open system of communication with the attending physician. When the doctor has thorough and up-to-date information from the patient, then the patient can receive the best treatment options possible to relieve the symptoms of FBS. From there, the patient can begin to take his or her life “back!”