Incorrrectly diagnosed spinal cases cause 'failed back surgery syndrome'.

Total Health | March 15th, 2010

Consultant orthopaedic surgeon Khai Lam writes that incorrrectly diagnosed spinal cases cause 'failed back surgery syndrome'. Consultant orthopaedic surgeon Khai Lam writes...
 

Lumbar canal spinal stenosisA condition in which the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord and nerves. is a condition that is caused by a triad of a bulging disc, thickened ligament (ligamentum flavum) and facet joints. The spinal canal gradually becomes narrowed with time and this can cause debilitating low back and/or leg pains, i.e. sciaticaPain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which is the main nerve in each leg and the largest nerve in the body.. Although the majority of patients have mild to moderate symptoms and respond well with physiotherpay and injections, e.g. nerveBundle of fibres that carries information in the form of electrical impulses. injection, more disabled individuals with a more chronicA disease of long duration generally involving slow changes. and disabling condition may be a candidate for surgical interventation.
This decent study presented at the 2010 American Academy of Orthoapedic Surgeons confirms my long term experiences in the management of spinal stenosis. The condition needs to be accurately diagnosed before going onto surgery. This can be performed via minimal invasive surgery thereby allowing patients to be discharged the same day completely pain free and return back to work within 1 - 2 weeks. Conventional open surgery leads to more bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. loss, more pain, lengthier hospital stay and delayed return back to work or sports by 6 - 8 weeks.

Additionally, incorrrectly diagnosed cases that may require additional screw fixation to the spine, i.e. spinal fusion, is a notorious cause of 'failed back surgery syndrome' after spinal decompression for lumbarThe part of the back between the lowest ribs and the top of the pelvis. canal stenosis. Therefore it is  mandatory for patients seeking advice regarding surgery be reviewed by a spinal surgeon that is competent at making an accurate diagnosisThe process of determining which condition a patient may have. followed by a stepwise management and counseling of the condition before possibly considering minimal invasive surgery.

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