Treatment for Lumbar Post-Laminectomy Syndrome in New Jersey
In most cases, spine surgery goes as planned and the patient experiences a full recovery. Some patients, however, experience persistent side effects and pain after their procedure. This condition is known as lumbar post-laminectomy syndrome and, if left unaddressed, can cause lifelong discomfort.
NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute offers corrective surgery, including minimally invasive spine surgery techniques, to repair the damage caused by failed procedures. We have locations with innovative technology throughout New Jersey in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, and Holmdel. We can help you get back to a pain-free life.
What Causes Lumbar Post-Laminectomy Syndrome?
A laminectomy is the preferred method of treating spinal problems caused by compression. The procedure involves removing excess bone from the vertebrae, creating more room for the nerves to function unimpeded.
Most patients who undergo a laminectomy see a full recovery and can return to life as normal. In some cases, however, the original pain returns, or the patient develops complications or a new spine problem. This failure can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
- The spinal nerve root was damaged during the surgery.
- Scar tissue built up during recovery.
- The surgery destabilized the joint, causing joint hypermobility or spinal instability.
- A disc has ruptured since the surgery, causing a lumbar herniated disc.
- An additional degenerative condition has appeared or worsened.
- The original pain was caused by a larger systemic health problem.
- The original condition was misdiagnosed, and the patient actually had lumbar spinal stenosis.
- The patient developed a post-operative infection.
- Smoking during the recovery period impeded the body’s ability to heal.
No matter the cause, post-laminectomy syndrome can be life-altering. Prompt treatment is key to a complete recovery.
Symptoms of Lumbar Post-Laminectomy Syndrome
There are many causes for lumbar post-laminectomy syndrome, and the symptoms are just as varied. The specific pain you experience depends on the details of your condition and its cause. Most patients report dull, aching pain along the spinal column, similar to what they experienced before their surgery. Others feel a new pricking or stabbing pain. If the condition causes continued nerve compression, you may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your extremities.
More importantly, post-laminectomy syndrome extends your pain when you expected a return to a pain-free life. Failed back surgeries can be debilitating. The continual pain you experience can have a significant impact on your day-to-day, including:
- Decreased quality of life
- Inability to perform everyday activities
- Decreased enjoyment of hobbies
- Difficulty sleeping
- Depression and anxiety
Seeking a second treatment may sound discouraging, especially after your initial surgery failed to provide relief. With a specialist, however, lumbar post-laminectomy syndrome can be repaired. The proper treatment can provide the full restoration you were seeking.
Diagnosing Lumbar Post-Laminectomy Syndrome
When you arrive at NU-Spine for treatment, our priority is to diagnose the cause of your discomfort. Board-certified neurosurgeon Dr. Branko Skovrlj will review your medical history, including the documents related to your surgery, and perform a physical evaluation to check your mobility and sensitivity. He may also request imaging tests using the latest diagnostic equipment, including:
- X-Ray
- CT scans
- MRI
The goal is to determine the exact cause of your lumbar post-laminectomy syndrome, whether it is due to a damaged nerve root, scar tissue, or a secondary disorder. This understanding will help Dr. Skovrlj form your treatment plan.
Treatments for Lumbar Post-Laminectomy Syndrome
After we correctly diagnose the cause of your persistent pain, we can administer more effective treatment. We typically begin with a conservative approach designed to relieve pain and improve your general mobility. These treatments might mimic the recovery process for a laminectomy. Initial treatments may include:
- Physical therapy and targeted exercises
- Alternating hot and cold therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Steroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Nerve block injections
- Rest and avoidance of aggravating activities
Some cases may improve with these methods alone. If your symptoms persist, surgery may be required. Dr. Skovrlj specializes in minimally invasive procedures, which use smaller incisions and advanced tools to conduct the surgery more safely than traditional open surgery. Not only are these procedures faster, but they also carry a variety of benefits:
- Less blood loss
- Reduced risk of muscle damage
- Reduced risk of infection
- Less post-operative pain
- A faster recovery
With an improved recovery and fewer side effects, minimally invasive surgery has less likelihood of causing a recurrence of post-laminectomy syndrome.
Treat Post-Laminectomy Syndrome at NU-Spine
If you are struggling with lumbar post-laminectomy syndrome or symptoms of another failed back surgery, don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with the spine experts at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today for an initial consultation, or visit one of our New Jersey locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, and Hainesport.