[milbank123]

#7288

in 2002 i had my first spinal fusion in L3/4. Eight years later i again suffered acute back pain. In novermber 2011 after extensive examinations i underwent a further fusion on L5. The acute back pain still remained thefore again after further investigations it what decided to carry out a refusion from L5 to S1 that was in january 2012. I have since suffered immense acute back pain in the lower area of my back and sciatic nerve pain. Can you please advice

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#7290

It appears that you have now had a fusion of L3-S1 (the lowest three levels in the lower back) and you have continuing pain. The differential includes failure of fusion at one or more levels (pseudoarthrosis), malalignment of fusion, continued compression of the neural elements, chronic radiculopathy, arachnoiditis or sacroiliac syndrome.

The work-up includes a new MRI, a CT scan, a thorough evaluation and possibly some diagnostic blocks. Treatment may include further medications, therapy, surgery or neurostimulation.

You would need a close evaluation by an experienced spine surgeon.

Dr. Corenman

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