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Persistent radiculopathy after surgical treatment for lumbar disc herniation: causes and treatment options

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Abstract

Purpose

Lumbar disc surgery is a common procedure in the USA. It is frequently performed with good or excellent results in most patients. This article reviews common causes of persistent radiculopathy after surgical intervention.

Methods

We performed an extensive review of the literature as well as applying our own experience.

Results

Common causes of persistent leg pain following operative intervention include re-herniation, epidural fibrosis, biochemical/physiologic changes in the nerve root, and psychosocial issues.

Conclusions

Patients with persistent leg pain after surgical treatment of lumbar disc herniation can pose a challenging clinical problem. Summary of these topics and available treatment options are reviewed.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02111, USA

    Ashley Rogerson

  2. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Division of Spine Surgery, Newton Wellesley Hospital, Newton, MA, 02462, USA

    Jessica Aidlen & Louis G. Jenis

  3. Newton Wellesley Hospital, 2014 Washington Street, Newton, MA, 02458, USA

    Louis G. Jenis

Authors
  1. Ashley Rogerson
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  2. Jessica Aidlen
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  3. Louis G. Jenis
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Louis G. Jenis.

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The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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This article does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors.

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Rogerson, A., Aidlen, J. & Jenis, L.G. Persistent radiculopathy after surgical treatment for lumbar disc herniation: causes and treatment options. International Orthopaedics (SICOT) 43, 969–973 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-018-4246-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-018-4246-7

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