Pain and numbness at surgery scar?

Question

I had spinal fusion surgery in 2011 (July). the incision was made in the front of my neck. Is it normal to still have pain and numbness?

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  Numbness after any surgical 
procedure is expected for several weeks to months following.  As the 
nerves to the area are traumatized and will then experience a temporary 
neuropraxia, a transient loss of nerve conduction.  This usually 
resolves over the next 6-12 weeks, but depending on the procedure 
performed, sometimes much longer.  Typically this should resolve by 1 
year.  As it goes past this date, the likelihood of the sensation 
returning is small.  However, it can take up to 2 years.  If no return 
from there, it is unlikely to return.  It should be discussed that 
persistent sensory changes may develop following any surgical 
procedure.  The usual signs of the nerves regenerating and neuropraxia
 resolving is itching, followed by a burning sensation and then 
occasional sharp, shock-like pains.  These will be normal to experience,
 and actually a promising sign.  Usually, normal sensation returns, but 
is is also possible to have decreased sensation or even increased 
sensation to the areas affected.  Re-educating nerves postoperatively is
 often helpful and will allow proper instruction for the affected 
sensory nerves - methods include using different textures to the 
affected areas when showering, bathing, applying lotion, etc.  If 
bothersome, there are some medications that may be helpful, including 
Neurontin for pain for hypersensitivity.  You can try various textures 
such as washcloths, loofahs, cotton sheets, etc.  Massaging the areas is
 also beneficial for the incision to make the finest scar possible.  The
 last place to regain the sensation will be directly adjacent to the 
incision/scar as the nerves will make its way from the periphery to this
 location.  If continual pain arises, evaluation is warranted.  After 
ruling out other causes, one rare explanation may be that a neuroma has 
developed and may require surgical excision.  This is very unlikely 
unless a large sensory nerve has been transected inadvertently during 
the procedure.  Hope that this helps!  Best wishes!

Laxmeesh Mike Nayak, MD · Answer

Numbness is common at surgical scar sites. It usually improves with time, although it is sometimes possible that islands of numbness will be permanent. Significant pain may suggest keloid scarring. If this car is thick, steroid injection may help.

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