Revision Procedures In Milwaukee, WI

Revision spinal surgery usually corrects the results of a prior procedure that had been inadequately or improperly performed. Revision surgery is complex and should be performed by a doctor that specializes in it. If you’ve had a neck surgery or back surgery but you’re still experiencing symptoms, or if you get new symptoms, you may have one of the medical issues on the list below. The following diagnoses may necessitate a second or even third spinal surgery, depending on your individual situation. This is known as revision surgery.

1. Recurring Disc Herniations

If, after a discectomy, you again have sciatica, pain down your arm, or other herniated disc symptoms, you may have a recurring herniation. A recurring disc herniation is basically a repeat of the problem that led to the surgery in the first place. A discectomy typically removes only those pieces of disc material (called fragments) that have become partially or fully disengaged from the main disc. You still have your disc, and it is still possible to herniate the part that’s left. 

2. Pseudo-arthrosis

Pseudoarthrosis is when the bones don’t fuse by one year after a spinal fusion surgery. Pseudoarthrosis is fairly common. Some things that may play a role in the development of pseudoarthrosis after your first spine surgery include: the nature of your original diagnosis; the hardware (or lack thereof) installed; the type of bone graft, if any, used; and your health habits and condition. For example, if you smoke or take corticosteroids, your risk for pseudoarthrosis may be increased. 

3. Adjacent Segment Disease

Adjacent segment degeneration is a condition in which anatomical changes occur at the spinal joints above and/or below the place a back surgery is done. The fusion places more pressure on the levels below and/or above and can eventually deteriorate those levels. 

4. Revision TDR

Total disc replacement, often called TDR for short, is a relatively new surgery (in the United States) that is seen by some spine experts as a viable alternative to spinal fusion surgery. Only 0% to 5% of patients referred for spine surgery fit the criteria for a safe and successful TDR. One of the most common complications leading to a revision TDR is device failure. Examples of device failure include malfunctioning of the prosthetic disc implanted in your spine, or when the device shifts position. 

5. Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Patients who have undergone multiple operations may continue to present with pain. Conditions such as CSF leak, pseudomeningocele, arachnoiditis, pseudo-arthrosis, and sagittal imbalance may be misdiagnosed by surgeons who are not experienced in complex revision work. Dr. Prpa is an expert in diagnosing, treating, and surgically correcting failed back surgery syndrome. 

When to Consider Revision Spine Surgery

Persistent or worsening symptoms after a prior spinal procedure can signal the need for revision spine surgery. Many patients expect steady improvement after their first operation, so ongoing pain is often a major warning sign. If you continue to feel sharp or radiating pain, numbness, or weakness, especially near the original surgical site, it may mean the earlier procedure did not fully correct the problem. 

Other red flags include limited mobility that does not improve with time, new nerve symptoms, or discomfort that returns shortly after initial relief. In some cases, hardware from a previous surgery can loosen or fail, creating instability or irritation. Issues like recurrent disc herniations may also require another operation. 

Timing matters. Early consultation helps prevent worsening symptoms and supports better long-term outcomes. Meeting with a spine specialist like Dr. Branko Prpa allows you to understand the cause of your discomfort and explore revision surgery options that can help restore function and reduce pain. 

Dr. Branko Prpa’s Expertise in Complex Spine Revisions 

Revision operations require advanced skill and detailed diagnostic work. That is why complex cases should be managed by a surgeon who specializes in reconstructive spinal procedures. With more than 5,000 successful operations and fellowship training at the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Prpa offers unmatched expertise in revision back surgery, revision procedure planning, and advanced reconstructive techniques. 

His approach focuses on identifying the true source of ongoing symptoms rather than repeating steps from the original surgery. Dr. Prpa uses precision imaging tools, minimally invasive revision options, and careful surgical planning to correct complications such as instability, scar tissue, or failed hardware. Each plan is tailored to the patient, whether the solution involves decompression, realignment, or fusion revision surgery. 

Dr. Prpa’s focus on clarity, thorough evaluation, and advanced technology makes him a trusted choice for patients seeking dependable results after a difficult or unsuccessful prior surgery. 

Schedule Your Revision Surgery Consultation 

At Branko Prpa M.D. Spine Surgery, each case is personally evaluated by Dr. Prpa. During your visit, Dr. Prpa reviews your medical history, examines your previous surgical records, and orders detailed imaging when necessary. This process helps determine if revision spine surgery is the right next step or if a non-surgical option may resolve your symptoms.  

If you are experiencing ongoing pain after a previous spine operation, early evaluation is key. Dr. Prpa is here to walk you through the benefits and risks of different treatments, provides an individualized plan, and explains what you can expect before and after surgery. You can contact us to learn more or find a location nearest you.