Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is an older term used to describe ongoing or recurring back or leg pain after one or more spine surgeries. It does not necessarily mean the surgery was a failure. Persistent symptoms can have many possible causes, including nerve irritation, scar tissue, changes in the spine, recurrent or new disc problems, or pain coming from another structure. Symptoms may include back or leg pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or reduced mobility.
Living with persistent pain after spine surgery can affect sleep, physical activity, mood, and everyday quality of life. Because the underlying cause can vary from person to person, a thorough evaluation is important to better understand what may be contributing to the symptoms. Today, healthcare professionals may use the term persistent spinal pain syndrome instead of failed back surgery syndrome, as it more accurately reflects that ongoing pain does not automatically mean a surgery failed.
