Medical management of failed back surgery syndrome in Europe: evaluation modalities and treatment proposals

Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is defined as persistent pain more than 3 months after any form of spinal surgery. Due to its multifactorial origin, FBSS is often difficult to treat. In this context of failed back surgery, a very thorough assessment must be conducted concerning the site and characteristics of the pain (nociceptive or neuropathic), its mode of onset (presence or absence of pain-free intervals), and its impact on the patient's work and social life. Physical examination must exclude a non-spinal cause for the pain. MRI is the imaging modality of choice in this disease, but is often difficult to interpret, as MR signals are modified for 6 months after the operation. Scar tissue, which can be distinguished from recurrent disc hernia by its gadolinium enhancement, is present even in asymptomatic patients. After having eliminated infection and sacroiliac or posterior facet joint disease, the main aetiologies investigated are foraminal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, recurrent disc hernia, and non-union of spinal fusion; sometimes patients only experience persistent neuropathic pain. The treatment of failed back surgery syndrome with a predominant neuropathic component is based on the use of analgesics, especially antiepileptics, antidepressants or transcutaneous electrical stimulation. Epidural spinal infiltration should be considered as second-line treatment in view of the risk of serious neurological complications. Management must be based on a global, multidisciplinary approach with identification of any cognitive or behavioural disorders in combination with an appropriate functional rehabilitation programme.