For many patients, spinal surgery brings long-awaited relief from chronic back or leg pain. But what happens if the pain returns, or new symptoms develop, after your initial procedure? This is where revision spine surgery may be necessary.
At Alliance Orthopedics, we use advanced minimally invasive techniques to make revision surgeries safer, less painful, and faster to recover from than traditional open procedures. Here are seven signs it might be time to consider a revision.
1. Persistent Back or Leg Pain After Surgery
If your original procedure didn’t provide lasting relief, or if pain returns shortly after, you may need a revision to address the problem fully.
2. New or Worsening Nerve Symptoms
Tingling, numbness, or weakness in your arms or legs may signal that a nerve is still compressed or a new area of pressure has developed.
3. Hardware Complications
Spinal implants such as rods, screws, or cages can sometimes loosen, shift, or cause irritation. Revision surgery can correct or replace faulty hardware.
4. Spinal Instability
If your spine still feels unstable, like it’s “giving out” or not properly supported, you may need revision surgery to restore alignment.
5. Adjacent Segment Disease
When one level of your spine is fused, the discs above or below (like L3–L4 or L2–L3) may begin to wear down, creating new pain and compression.
6. Failed Fusion (Pseudoarthrosis)
In some cases, a spinal fusion doesn’t heal completely. This lack of solid bone growth can cause ongoing pain and require revision.
7. Declining Quality of Life
When back pain or limited mobility keeps you from work, exercise, or enjoying daily life, a revision procedure may be the key to restoring your independence.
Why Minimally Invasive Revision Surgery Is Different
Unlike traditional revision surgeries, which often involve large incisions and lengthy hospital stays, minimally invasive spine surgery:
- Use smaller incisions and muscle-sparing techniques
- Reduce blood loss, pain, and complications
- Allow many patients to go home the next day
- Enable faster return to physical therapy and activity
One patient who had previously endured a week-long hospital stay after her first spinal fusion came to Alliance Orthopedics for a minimally invasive two-level revision. This time, she walked on the same day and was discharged the next morning, marking a life-changing difference in her recovery experience.
Take the Next Step with Spine Surgery at Alliance
Not every patient is a candidate for revision spine surgery, but for many, minimally invasive techniques offer hope for faster healing and better results.
If you’ve had spinal surgery in the past and are still struggling with pain or new symptoms, request an appointment with Alliance Orthopedics today. Our team will evaluate your condition and create a personalized plan to help you get back to the life you love.
Don’t live with unresolved back pain; explore the benefits of minimally invasive revision spine surgery.
About the Author
Shalin Patel, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon with Alliance Orthopedics in New Jersey. He specializes in minimally invasive and complex spine surgery, helping patients find lasting relief from back and neck pain.