Fibrosis

Replacement of normal tissue with scar tissue. The formation of scar tissue near the nerve root (also called epidural fibrosis) is a common occurrence after back surgery and often occurs for patients with successful surgical outcomes as well as for those with continued or recurrent leg pain and back pain.

Scar tissue formation is part of the normal healing process after a spine surgery. While scar tissue can be a cause of pain, scar tissue itself is rarely painful since it contains no nerve endings.

• Scar tissue and continued pain after back surgery

• Other considerations for failed back surgery syndrome