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Back surgeries may not work for several reasons. Often, these procedures are to fix the spine rather than restore function. At certain cases, the pain may not go away, either. The reason for this is that pain may be coming from a different part of the spine than being fixed. Sometimes, well-intentioned surgeries may even inadvertently destabilize the spine. However, if a patient experiences significant symptoms such as bowel or bladder incontinence, foot drop (loss of control in the leg or foot), or severe pain clearly linked to structural issues like a severely displaced disc, a surgical evaluation may be warranted. In the absence of what are called “Red Flags,” patients can often avoid the outcomes associated with “Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.”
Unfortunately, some patients find themselves in a similar pain after the back surgery and may choose to undergo additional surgeries. Numerous studies worldwide have shown that repeated surgeries may yield less than desired results, primarily due to challenges in accurately identifying pain generators.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. The potential for relief from chronic pain lies in a thorough understanding of the underlying issues, which can be complex. It is essential to consult with the experts and ask the appropriate questions. When dealing with back problems, obtaining the highest quality care is crucial. The key is to find a knowledgeable and experienced physician, such as those at the Interventional Pain & Wellness Center, where specialists are “double or triple” board certified with more than 40 years of combined experience.
The Interventional Pain & Wellness Center has 3 locations, one is located on Jog Rd and Lake Ida (see the addresses below). We first identify the pain source. This requires obtaining detailed history of pain and thorough physical examination. Then, we set up diagnostic tests to properly pinpoint the exact regions of the spine which require specific treatment. Without these diagnostic tests, the wrong diagnoses can be made and then ineffective treatment with surgery becomes likely. The imaging studies, like simple X-Rays, show the bone and joints and their relationships with surrounding structures. An MRI or CT-Scan is better for soft tissues, like intervertebral discs, ligaments, and cysts if exist. In these images, we can identify the problems relating to the patient’s pain. We can test the nerves with various means, like “Nerve Conduction Studies.”
The trouble is that many findings on scans or tests may not have any relationship with what hurts. If you take 100 people off the street and give them MRI’s or CT-Scans, 33% of them, even if they had no back pain whatsoever, would have something wrong in their spine. Data also points out that less the 5% of all patients who experience back pain will EVER require surgery but, however, a much higher percentage of patients wind up with an operation. Statistics show also that by two years after a patient’s first surgery, about 8% of patients have had another operation and by 10 years after, the rate jumps to 20%, an analysis of Washington State hospital data found.
Here’s the real problem… Patients tend to think of back surgery as the only cure or consider it the treatment that will work successfully. Sometimes, in our desperation to get our lives back, it may seem like a good idea to jump over those less invasive procedures.
In our experience, it is rather that a patient we see in our office will require surgery for pain. We also see many patients in pain who have already had 1 or more back surgeries. If the surgery fails to help patients overcome their pain and now their spines are more complicated.
If a doctor recommends an operation, you may get a second opinion. Surgeons do understand that you need to be comfortable with any decision and prior to having surgery other opinions are needed. For a truly useful second look, our physicians can also fully evaluate this situation and determine what all other options exist.
There have been many instances when patients were scheduled for one type of surgery and something totally different may also be causing their pain. Specifically, issues with sacroiliac joints, hips and other regions of the body can mimic pain which would also NOT require surgery. We always try to help a patient fully understand what is causing them a pain issue. This is usually pinpointed easily, diagnosed properly and then treated successfully without the need for any type of surgery.
Avoiding surgery is our number one goal to help to treat a growing older and active community. Our Interventional Pain Specialist Medical Doctors, A.C. Ozaktay, Kush Tripathi, or Marc Cohen are located Delray Beach, Coconut Creek and Pompano, and are all board certified, tremendous amount of knowledge, skills and experience.
Every patient is evaluated by our doctors themselves, and a comprehensive treatment plan is always tailored for everyone. Patients are NOT seen by PA’s (physician assistants) or NP’s (nurse practitioners). You will see the doctor on each visit. Our knowledge encompasses each region of the body which can cause pain. We spend time with our patients whatever takes as efficiently as possible. We aim to run on time and do not make patients wait hours in his office to see him. Please look forward to reviews (IPWCBROWARD.COM) about our doctors and the vast number of procedures we perform to help people with all types of pain. Our focus is to help individuals avoid surgery, eliminate pain medications and to ultimately feel much better daily and enjoy life!
CALL | +1 (954) 633-2397
www.ipwcbroward.com
13722 S Jog Road, Suite A
Delray Beach, FL 33446