Imaging persistent spinal pain syndrome and spine surgery complications: an interpretation guide for radiologists.

ABSTRACT: This educational review provides a comprehensive guide for radiologists on the imaging interpretation of persistent spinal pain syndrome (PSPS) and complications following spine surgery. PSPS, previously known as failed back surgery syndrome, describes persistent or recurrent, primarily neuropathic, pain after spine surgery affecting 10-40% of patients. Radiologists often encounter challenges in diagnosing PSPS due to unfamiliarity with postoperative anatomical modifications and the complexity of surgical interventions. This review emphasises the necessity of correlating imaging findings with the clinical context through an interdisciplinary collaboration, while keeping in mind the particular psychological context of postoperative patients in chronic pain. We focus on lumbar spine surgery

SUBMITTER: Budzik JF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12847616 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature