Going through spine surgery can be daunting; sometimes, things may not go right. Because of this, you’ve to undergo revision surgery. When done correctly, the procedure can relieve pain and discomfort caused by the failed surgery. Dr. Steve Paragioudakis, an experienced surgeon, says a successful revision eliminates the need to rely on conservative treatments.
He noted that the reason for failed spinal surgery lies in the complexity of the procedure. It can be challenging for surgeons to maintain a 100% success rate. Thankfully, combining experience and emerging technologies helps reduce the likelihood of costly errors. High-tech tools use minimally invasive techniques.
Steve Paragioudakis, MD, says some benefits of revision spine surgery include the possibility of shorter hospital stays and speedy recovery. Doctors take advantage of the latest imaging techniques to ensure accurate diagnostics. Likewise, smaller surgical accessories allow the surgeon to get the job done correctly. That way, you walk out of the operating room with minimal scarring.
Limited trauma to surrounding spine tissues is good for your recovery. It doesn’t take long to heal. So, Dr. Steve says revision surgery can do wonders when handled correctly using the right tools. You don’t have to grapple with failed scoliosis or kyphosis surgery symptoms.
Common revision procedures
Surgeons determine the appropriate procedures after checking what went wrong with the first surgery. This diagnostic step is crucial because it lets practitioners know what works best. The physicians will be under pressure to do things correctly and relieve the symptoms. So, they look at your medical condition to prevent complications.
Depending on your symptoms, medical condition, and other clinical factors, you may undergo one of several revision procedures. It can involve scar or infected tissue removal, spinal realignment, or replacement surgical instrumentation. Additional procedures include relieving pinched nerves, extending a previous spinal fusion, and reducing spinal compression by removing bone bits.
Your recovery
Post-surgery recovery is a big issue that determines when you can go back to normal. During this phase, it’s normal to feel sore and stiff. Depending on how the surgeons did their job, you could start doing simple things between three and six weeks. These activities include light housework.
You can get to full recovery between three to 12 months. Minimal scarring ensures short recovery times. During this period, it’s vital to wear a brace and heals. And physiotherapy sessions may be necessary. These steps make it easier to achieve positive patient outcomes and to live your best life.
Dr. Steve Paragioudakis recommends getting enough sleep. After a few weeks, you should feel comfortable going out for a walk. Doing so enhances your recovery by increasing blood flow. At the same time, you minimize the possibility of contracting pneumonia and constipation.
On the other hand, your doctor may urge you to limit lifting heavy stuff. Riding bicycles and jogging may be off-limits for some time too. The same applies to traveling by car for over 30 minutes. If you can’t avoid long rides, stop regularly and stretch your legs. These restrictions usually apply between two to four weeks after revision spine surgery.
About
Steve Paragioudakis is a Johns Hopkins University and Rutgers New Jersey Medical School graduate. He has been helping patients with spinal problems at his practice for more than three decades.
