Narrowing of the spinal canal because of arthritis or a herniated disc may require surgery if significant symptoms are present. Symptoms such as radiating pain in the arms or legs, major muscle atrophy in the extremities or weakness in the arms or legs are reasons for spine surgery. Spine surgery is not without risks.
Paralysis
A rare but devastating complication is paralysis (see Reference 3). Exposure of the spinal cord and the spinal canal are necessary during surgery. The membrane that covers the spinal cord is like rice paper. Unintentional damage can be caused by retractors, scalpels and even the surgeon's hands. Vigorous manipulation of the spinal nerves can cause chronic radiating pain post-operatively. Weakness in the extremities and muscle wasting is caused by spinal nerve injury.
CSF Leak
Cerebral spinal fluid, or CSF, bathes the spinal cord as an extra cushion against injury. CSF pressure is highly regulated, and a puncture to the membrane around the spinal cord can cause leakage. Headaches occur post-operatively when spinal fluid leaks out of the sac and the pressure of the CSF is disrupted (see Reference 2). Bed rest with the patient completely supine is required while the perforation seals. Occasionally, it is necessary to perform a blood patch in order to seal the leak. A blood patch is performed by injecting a small amount of blood around the area where the leak is occurring. Other complications include spinal cord compression from significant spinal fluid leakage, creating muscle weakness and even paralysis. According to Cure-Back-Pain.org, if the spinal fluid becomes infected, meningitis may occur.
Pseudoarthrosis
The University of Maryland Spine Clinic defines pseudoarthrosis as a failed fusion or a fracture that has not healed. Pseudoarthrosis allows unwanted motion between the vertebrae where the fracture or failed fusion is located. The result of this unwanted motion is spinal instability and pain. Motion can fracture spinal hardware that was placed during the fusion creating even further instability. The number-one reason for failed fusion is smoking (see Reference 2).
Other Complications
Persistent pain is the most common complication of spinal surgery, according to the University of Maryland Spine Clinic. Surgery does not always relieve pain, even with anatomical correction of the problem. Other complications include injury to the pelvic nerves during low back surgery which can cause sexual dysfunction or urinary incontinence (see Reference 3).
