Revision laminectomy is required when the initial spinal surgery fails to correct the problem, or when the pain and discomfort associated with spinal nerve compression returns. This is most common in situations where the compression is due to bony overgrowth (bone spurs), but also happens in situations where a patient with osteoporosis is experiencing continued bone loss, leading to additional spinal fractures. Re-injury to a previously injured area can also cause the need for a revision laminectomy. For additional information or an appointment, contact Dr. Chetan Patel at AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health by calling Call407-303-5452.
What Is a Revision Laminectomy?
In essence, a revision laminectomy is the same procedure as a standard laminectomy. It is simply being performed for a second time. The most common cause of this is the regrowth of bone spurs. Because a laminectomy can only treat the symptoms of this condition, rather than the cause, regrowth is not only possible, but likely in many circumstances. Dr. Chetan Patel at the AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health regularly advises patients with back pain due to bone spurs that while they will experience significant relief from the initial surgery, it is possible for the spurs to grow back.
In a revision laminectomy, the first thing the surgeon will do is determine if the symptoms are at the same location as the previous surgery. Often, symptoms will present in the same general area, but actually be caused by issues with a higher or lower vertebra than the original surgery site. This is common with osteoporosis patients suffering from ongoing bone loss.
Once the specific location has been determined, the surgeon will fully assess the situation and recommend a revision laminectomy if bone spurs have regrown at the original site, or recommend a treatment for new symptoms at a different vertebra.
Another common symptom for potential revision laminectomy patients who have had spine fusion is the degeneration of the vertebra directly above the fused segment. The immobilization performed on the original injury can create additional stress on the vertebra above, facilitating further degeneration and causing pain and discomfort. In these instances, revision surgery is not necessary, but a new laminectomy procedure or possible spinal fusion will be recommended depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s pain level.
Recovery Time for Revision Surgery
The recovery time for revision surgery is generally the same as for the original procedure, though this can be complicated if there is significant vascularization at the site. Devascularization is necessary in order to facilitate faster healing times for patients undergoing revision surgery. Vascularization may not only slow down the healing process, but it can also make the new wound more susceptible to infection, leading to a host of new problems for the patient.
If you are experiencing renewed back pain and feel that a revision laminectomy procedure is necessary, contact Dr. Chetan Patel at the AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health for a full evaluation of your condition by calling Call407-303-5452. Often, revision surgery is not necessary, as the symptoms are created by a new condition.