When fusion fails to resolve back pain, the path forward is not always more surgery. Many patients have unrepaired annular tears at adjacent levels that the fusion did not address. The fibrin procedure addresses those tears at discs unaffected by hardware. Among published cohorts, 80% of patients with prior failed surgery reported positive outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Failed fusion is documented in roughly 40% of cases (FBSS).
- Adjacent-segment lesions are common drivers.
- The fibrin procedure addresses tears at non-fused levels.
- 80% of failed-surgery patients reported positive outcomes in cohorts.
- Surgical revision is not the only option.
What This Guide Covers
- What does ‘failed fusion’ actually mean?
- Where do non-surgical options fit?
- What does evaluation include?
- When is revision surgery still right?
What does ‘failed fusion’ actually mean?
FBSS is persistent or recurrent pain after fusion. Causes include unrepaired tears, adjacent-segment degeneration, hardware-related pain, scar formation, or pain drivers the original surgery did not target.
Where do non-surgical options fit?
For tear-driven post-fusion pain at discs unaffected by hardware, the fibrin procedure addresses the lesion directly. The procedure does not revise the prior surgery.
What does evaluation include?
Pre- and post-fusion imaging, current MRI, the operative note, focused exam, and history of post-fusion treatment attempts. The Valor team identifies the active driver.
When is revision surgery still right?
For pseudarthrosis, hardware failure, or progressive instability, revision surgery is appropriate. The evaluation surfaces which path fits.
Clinical Note
Patients with failed fusion frequently feel they have used their surgical option. Our clinical staff treats that as incomplete framing. Many post-fusion patients have addressable lesions at non-fused levels that the original surgery never targeted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have the procedure with hardware in place?
Yes, at discs unaffected by hardware.
Will the procedure undo my fusion?
No. It does not revise prior surgery.
How long after fusion is the procedure considered?
After standard post-surgical recovery is complete.
Related reading:
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified physician. Treatment decisions depend on your individual medical history and clinical findings. Schedule a consultation to discuss whether the procedure is right for you.
