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Complications of Spine Surgery

Spine surgery is not always successful. Sometimes the procedure does not fully rid the patient of back pain, or additional surgeries are needed in the future. Before going under the knife for spine surgery, one should examine the possible risks and complications.

  1. Pseudoarthrosis

    • This condition occurs in as much as 10 percent of spinal fusion patients, according to orthopedic surgeon John E. Sherman M.D. It is when the vertebrae do not properly fuse together after surgery.

    Nerve Damage

    • There are so many nerves in and around the spine, damage to these nerves is possible. Sometimes, but rarely, a loss of sensation to the legs, bladder and bowel occur after spinal surgery.

    Infertility

    • In a small number of male patients, surgery around the L5-S1 vertebra can cause ejaculation problems. Instead of propelling out the penis, men ejaculate into the bladder, Dr. Sherman says.

    Other Risks

    • Spine surgery, like any other surgery, holds the risk of infection, negative effects with anesthesia and excessive bleeding.

    Post-Operative

    • After a spinal fusion surgery, it is important to protect the vertebrae graft by limiting any heavy lifting and refraining from strenuous physical activity for about three months.

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