Coccygectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the tailbone (coccyx) when chronic pain—known as coccydynia—does not improve with non-surgical treatments. At Midwest Spine & Brain Institute, our board-certified spine and neurosurgeons perform coccygectomy using precise, evidence-based techniques to relieve pain and restore comfort for sitting and daily movement.
With multiple clinic locations across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin, patients receive advanced care close to home.
What Is a Coccygectomy?
The coccyx is a small, triangular bone at the base of the spine, just below the sacrum. Injury, repeated pressure, or degenerative changes can cause long-term inflammation and pain that limits mobility.
When conservative care-such as physical therapy, injections, or specialized cushions-no longer provides relief, coccygectomy may be recommended. Tailbone pain may also coexist with other lower spine conditions, such as facet joint-related pain, which should be evaluated during diagnosis. Coccygectomy is one of many spine conditions we treat using evidence-based, personalized care plans.
Who Can Benefit from Coccygectomy?
Coccygectomy may help patients who experience:
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Persistent tailbone pain for more than six months
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Pain aggravated by sitting or rising from a seated position
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Pain following trauma, childbirth, or coccyx fracture
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Failure of conservative therapies (injections, physical therapy, medication)
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Imaging that shows coccyx instability, fracture, or abnormal angulation
During your consultation, our specialists perform a thorough clinical exam and review imaging to confirm if surgical removal is appropriate. Patients with prior trauma or degenerative spine changes like bone spurs may be more likely to experience chronic coccyx pain.
Coccygectomy Surgical Procedure
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A small incision is made near the sacrum, over the tailbone.
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The coccyx is carefully separated from surrounding tissues and detached from the sacrum.
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Fluoroscopy (live X-ray) may be used to guide precision during removal.
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The procedure typically lasts about one hour and is performed under general anesthesia.
Our surgeons use meticulous technique to minimize tissue disruption and infection risk.
Recovery After Coccygectomy
Recovery time varies by individual health, age, and the extent of surgery.
Patients often go home the same day or the following day.
What to expect during recovery:
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Sitting may be difficult for several weeks – use a cushion or donut pillow.
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Most patients gradually resume activities within 4-6 weeks, though full recovery may take three months to a year.
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Follow-up visits and imaging help ensure proper healing and relief of symptoms.
In properly selected patients, studies show good to excellent pain relief in 80–85% of cases after coccygectomy. (e-Neurospine Journal)
Risks and Complications
Coccygectomy is generally safe when performed by experienced spine surgeons, but like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks, including:
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Wound infection or delayed healing
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Temporary or persistent pain
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Rare nerve injury or rectal damage
Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks and preventive steps taken before surgery.
Why Choose Midwest Spine & Brain Institute?
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Board-Certified Spine and Neurosurgeons specializing in minimally invasive and motion-preserving procedures
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Personalized care plans designed to reduce pain and improve mobility
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Convenient locations across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin, including Stillwater, Edina, Maple Grove, and New Richmond.
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Comprehensive recovery support with rehabilitation guidance and follow-up care
Our team treats a full spectrum of spine and complex neurological conditions, ensuring coordinated care when overlapping issues are present. At Midwest Spine & Brain Institute, you’ll receive Twin Cities-level expertise-without the long commute. Our care is supported by nationally recognized orthopedic spine surgery expertise, combined with surgeons highly skilled in minimally invasive spine techniques designed to reduce recovery time and complications. This collaborative approach is further strengthened by leaders in advanced neurosurgical care, allowing our multidisciplinary team to deliver precise diagnosis, evidence-based treatment decisions, and surgical excellence for even the most complex spine and neurological conditions.
FAQs About Coccygectomy (Tailbone Removal Surgery)
What is coccygectomy surgery?
Coccygectomy is a surgical procedure that removes all or part of the tailbone (coccyx). It is recommended for chronic tailbone pain (coccydynia) that does not improve with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, injections, or medication.
Who is a good candidate for coccygectomy?
You may be a candidate if you have long-lasting coccyx pain (usually 6+ months), difficulty sitting, pain after trauma or childbirth, or abnormal tailbone mobility seen on imaging—and if conservative care has not provided lasting relief.
Is coccygectomy a painful procedure?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness afterward is normal, but it is managed with medication, proper wound care, and modified sitting techniques.
How long does recovery take after coccygectomy?
Most patients resume light activity in 4–6 weeks. Full healing and symptom improvement may take 3 months to a year. Using cushions, avoiding prolonged sitting, and following post-operative instructions improve long-term results.
What are the risks of coccygectomy?
Complications are rare but may include wound infection, temporary increased pain, or delayed healing. Choosing an experienced spine surgeon and following all aftercare guidelines reduces these risks significantly.
What results can I expect after coccygectomy?
Most patients experience significant or complete relief from tailbone pain. Research shows success rates of approximately 80–85% when the procedure is performed on appropriately selected patients by skilled spine surgeons.
Where can I have coccygectomy surgery in Minnesota or Wisconsin?
Midwest Spine & Brain Institute offers coccygectomy and other advanced spine procedures at multiple locations across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin-including Stillwater, Edina, Maple Grove, New Richmond, and St. Croix Falls-providing expert spine care close to home.
Download the Coccygectomy Patient Information Packet (PDF)
For detailed guidance on preparing for your coccygectomy, understanding the recovery process, and post-operative care tips, download our
>>Coccygectomy Patient Information Packet.
This educational resource from Midwest Spine & Brain Institute helps patients know what to expect before and after tailbone surgery.