Spine surgery is often complicated by the development of new clinical problems and these problems sometimes require further revision surgery. Approximately 4% of lumbar disc herniations recur within 10 years of the initial surgery, 9-45% of patients require revision surgery after a fusion, and 21% of patients require revision surgery after spinal deformity correction surgery.
Surgeon experience has been shown to be associated with reduced complications, particularly in complex spine surgery.
Discussing with your surgeon regarding his/her surgical experience with your particular type of surgery is an important part of the pre-operative discussion and is an essential part of informed consent. It may be pertinent to request a second expert opinion, particularly for a complex surgical problem.
A detailed frank discussion with your surgeon is important in formulating a surgical plan tailored to your specific problem.
