Our Services / Complex Spinal Revisions

What are complex spinal revisions?

Complex spinal revisions are surgical procedures that involve rectifying problems arising from previous spine surgeries.

Complex spinal revisions are far more complicated than the original operation. They require advanced decision-making, planning, and exceptional skill to repair the damage, reduce pain, and restore mobility.

Why might I need complex spinal revisions?

Complex spinal revisions might be necessary for a variety of reasons, including:

• An implant (such as an artificial disc replacement) that fails
• The issue the original surgery was supposed to fix is still there
• You have a new problem in your back or neck since your original surgery
• You have painful scar tissue formation at the surgical site

Patients who've had surgery for scoliosis (abnormal spinal curvature) when they were younger might find that their condition worsens again as they mature.

Many patients with scoliosis also develop additional problems as they get older, such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and spinal stenosis. That means the surgeon has to address both the structural abnormality and the degenerative condition.

What might complex spinal revisions involve?

Before your complex spinal revision, your surgeon studies diagnostic images such as MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays. They analyze your anatomy and the nature of the problem needing revision. Then they develop a plan for your complex spinal revision that aims to optimize your outcomes.

Whenever possible, Advanced Neurosurgery surgeons use minimally invasive techniques to perform complex spinal revisions. Many complex cases require fusion, implants, instrumentation, or a combination of measures to reposition the vertebrae.

What should I consider when preparing for complex spinal revision?

It's important to choose a practice like Advanced Neurosurgery for your complex spinal revision because their surgeons have the required skills and experience to carry out these demanding procedures.

Generally speaking, the more previous surgeries you've had, the more complex your revision surgery is likely to be. These operations require a specialized skill set to ensure that you benefit from the revision and your condition doesn't deteriorate as a result of inexpert surgery.

You should also bear in mind that the risks of complications are higher in complex spinal revisions. This is particularly true for patients with conditions like diabetes or heart disease, smokers, and people carrying extra weight.

The more you can improve your overall health before complex spinal revision surgery, the better the outcomes should be.

If you've been through spinal surgery that hasn't benefited you or you've developed new issues, complex spinal revision surgery could resolve your problems. Call the experts at Advanced Neurosurgery today to find out more or book an appointment online.