Revision Surgery
Revision Surgery
What is it?
It’s an unfortunate fact that even with the most meticulously executed spine surgery, complications can sometimes happen. Some patients won’t heal well, others don’t receive the outcomes they hope for. More often, however, the prosthesis loosens over time or may become damaged due to infection, fracture, or normal wear and tear.
When this happens, pain and swelling can occur. Your spine may also feel stiff or unstable, making it difficult to perform your everyday activities.
Although both procedures have the same goal—to relieve pain and improve function—revision spine surgery is different than primary spine surgery in that it is a longer, more complex procedure that requires extensive planning, and specialized implants and tools. And while it is true that revision spine surgery is more complex and more technically demanding than the primary, Dr. Washington is an expert in the procedure.
What goes wrong?
Common Reasons for revision
Wear and Tear
For a prosthesis to function properly, it must remain firmly attached to the bone. Over time, however, the implant may loosen due to factors such as high-impact activities, excessive body weight, and wear of the plastic spacer between the metal components.
Infection
Infection is a potential in any surgical procedure and can occur while you are in the hospital or after you go home. If the previous fusion or artificial joint becomes infected, it can lose its attachment to the bone, resulting in pain, swelling, and drainage.
Structural Changes
Prostheses are designed to work with the patient’s existing ligaments and bones. Any changes to those structures – either from disease or fracture – may prevent the prosthesis from working properly, resulting in pain and instability.
