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Complex spinal revision surgery corrects problems developing after prior spine procedures. At Advanced Neurosurgery in Reno and Carson City, Nevada, our board-certified neurosurgeons use state-of-the-art imaging technology and conduct comprehensive physical exams to gain a complete understanding of your condition before proceeding with surgery.
This detailed approach, informed by your medical records and previous surgeries, ensures we create the best treatment plan for your needs.
Common reasons for complex spinal revision surgery
Even when performed correctly, spinal surgeries can fail. The spine is a complex mechanical structure with many moving parts, so healing doesn't always go to plan. Five of the most common reasons for complex spinal revision surgery include:
1. Failed spinal implant
Spinal implants, such as artificial discs, screws, or rods, aren't a natural part of your spine, which means they can shift, loosen, or wear down over time, leading to pain and movement problems. A complex spinal revision procedure can remove the hardware and precisely position new implants or adjust the existing ones.
2. Persistent pain
If your original surgery didn’t relieve pain or only yielded temporary relief, you could still have an underlying spinal issue. Examples of lingering issues include incomplete nerve decompression, residual bone spurs, or persistent misalignments.
3. New problems
Even if your first spine surgery was successful, your spine continues changing afterward. New problems may develop. For example, degenerative conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis (when a vertebra slips forward over another one) can develop over time. These conditions may require further intervention to maintain spinal function.
4. Postsurgery scar tissue
After spine surgery, internal scar tissue can develop at the surgical site. It may build up around delicate spinal nerves. This can cause nerve compression, pain, numbness, or weakness. A complex spinal revision procedure can decompress the affected nerves to ease pain and other symptoms.
5. Spinal condition progression
Some spinal conditions, like scoliosis, may worsen with age. Patients who had corrective surgery earlier in life — often in childhood or adolescence — may need revision surgery later in life to correct new spinal curvature, instability, or degenerative changes.
Understanding complex spinal revision
Revision surgery is more complicated than the initial procedure. Many factors, such as bone weakening, scar tissue, and prior surgical hardware can increase complexity.
At Advanced Neurosurgery, our experienced neurosurgeons comprehensively review your medical records, perform a full neurological exam, and analyze imaging results in exhaustive detail to design a personalized spine revision surgery approach for you.
As minimally invasive spine surgery experts, our team possesses the unique skills needed to perform many revision procedures using highly advanced techniques that reduce recovery time.
Spine revision consultations in Nevada
If you’re frustrated with lingering symptoms after spine surgery, we can help. Call Advanced Neurosurgery or click here to book your consultation.