Revision Spine Surgery

Revision spine surgery is surgery to correct or improve the result of a previous spine operation. Some patients have pain that never improved after their first surgery. Others improve and then develop new problems months or years later. Dr. Robert J. Ames, a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon with training in complex spinal reconstruction and revision, evaluates and treats these patients in Sewell, Cherry Hill, and across South Jersey.

Common reasons for revision

Recurrent disc herniation at the same level
Adjacent segment disease, when the level above or below a fusion wears out
Nonunion (pseudarthrosis), when a fusion does not heal solidly
Loose or misplaced hardware
Flatback or loss of spinal alignment after prior fusion
Persistent nerve compression that was not fully relieved

Evaluation

Revision cases start with a careful search for the specific cause of your symptoms. This usually includes updated MRI or CT imaging, standing X-rays to measure alignment, and sometimes nerve testing or diagnostic injections. Not every patient with pain after surgery needs another operation. Identifying a clear, correctable problem is the key to a good result.

Treatment options

Depending on the cause, options range from physical therapy and targeted injections to a focused decompression, repair of a nonunion, extension of a prior fusion, or realignment surgery. When appropriate, Dr. Ames uses minimally invasive and robotic-guided techniques to limit additional tissue disruption.

Common questions

Is revision surgery riskier than the first operation? Revision surgery can be more complex because of scar tissue and existing hardware. Dr. Ames will review the specific risks and expected benefits for your situation.

Can I get a second opinion on a revision recommendation? Yes. See Spine Surgery Second Opinion.

Schedule a consultation

Call (609) 267-9400 to see Dr. Ames at Virtua Reconstructive Orthopaedics in Sewell or Cherry Hill, NJ.

Request an Appointment