SI Joint Fusion
SI Joint Fusion: A Surgical Solution for Sacroiliac Joint Pain
SI joint fusion is a surgical procedure designed to alleviate pain caused by dysfunction in the sacroiliac (SI) joint. The SI joint plays a crucial role in connecting the spine to the pelvis, and it is responsible for transmitting weight and movement between the upper and lower body.
When the SI joint becomes damaged or inflamed, it can result in significant pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. SI joint fusion addresses this issue by removing the damaged or inflamed joint and replacing it with a metal implant to stabilize the area and reduce pain.
This procedure is typically recommended for patients who have not found relief from conservative treatments, such as physical therapy or injections, and who experience chronic pain due to SI joint dysfunction.
Did You Know?
Sacroiliitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the sacroiliac (SI) joint, which connects the spine to the pelvis. It is a form of arthritis that causes pain and discomfort in the joint. Sacroiliitis can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
Injury to the SI joint
Infections affecting the joint
Autoimmune diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, which may cause inflammation in the SI joint
If you’re experiencing pain in your lower back, buttocks, or legs, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine if sacroiliitis might be the cause
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a Candidate for SI Joint Fusion?
You may be a candidate for SI joint fusion if you have been experiencing chronic pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs that has persisted for several weeks or months and has not improved with conservative treatment options such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. In addition to pain, you might also experience instability, stiffness, or limited mobility in the lower back, hips, groin, or legs.
To determine whether your pain is originating from the sacroiliac joint, your doctor will likely recommend X-rays and an MRI. These imaging tests are essential in confirming the diagnosis and helping to guide the decision on whether SI joint fusion is the appropriate treatment for your condition.
What Can I Expect When Having SI Joint Fusion Performed?
SI joint fusion is generally performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home the same day. The procedure typically lasts about one hour and is done under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery.
During the procedure, your surgeon will make small incisions over the sacroiliac joint and carefully move the surrounding gluteal muscles aside to access the joint. A guide pin will be inserted to drill a hole through the ilium to reach the sacrum. If necessary, a bone graft will be placed into the joint space to promote healing. The surgeon will then insert a metal implant into the drilled passage and secure it using screws and/or wires.
This minimally invasive approach helps stabilize the joint and alleviate pain, enabling you to start the recovery process soon after the surgery.
What can I expect after the procedure?
After undergoing SI joint fusion, it’s common to experience some pain and swelling as part of the recovery process. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort. During the first few weeks, you will need to take it easy and may be provided with a cane or walker to help reduce stress on the joint while it heals.
You should avoid heavy lifting or engaging in strenuous activities during the initial recovery period. In addition, your doctor may recommend physical therapy exercises to support your healing and improve mobility.
While most individuals can return to normal activities within six weeks, full recovery can take up to six months. SI joint fusion is a safe and effective option for those suffering from sacroiliac joint pain. If you are dealing with persistent pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments, consult our team at Cellara Pain Institute to explore whether SI joint fusion is the right choice for you.