What Are SI Joint Fusions?
Sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion is a surgical technique that is performed in an operating room under general or spinal anesthesia. SI joint fusion is a minimally invasive surgical treatment that involves a tiny incision along the side of the buttocks in which we insert titanium implants across the sacroiliac joint.
Sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion is very successful for those who experience pain in the SI joint. SI joint point often causes lower back and/or leg pain.
Our surgeons are guided by equipment that prepare the bone and assist placement of the titanium implants across the sacroiliac joint.
During the procedure, your surgeon will be able to see real-time moving images of interior structures thanks to fluoroscopy, a common imaging technology used by doctors.
Our Doctors work alongside our Physical Therapists, Acupuncturists, Chiropractors and Nurse Practitioners to complete this piece of the recovery puzzle.
When Should I Consider an Si Joint Fusion?
Sacroiliac joint fusion may be considered if the following symptoms persist for several weeks or months and do not respond to nonsurgical treatment:
- Significant low back, hip, or groin discomfort that is making it difficult to function in daily life and that has not responded to nonsurgical treatment. Pain in the sacroiliac joint can occur on one or both sides of the body; one-sided low back pain is an early sign that the SI joint is to blame. The pain is usually limited to the lower back and pelvis, but it might go down the back of the leg (sciatica).
- Instability in the pelvis and lower back, which can result in pain or difficulties standing, walking, or transitioning from sitting to standing. Climbing stairs or walking up an incline can be particularly painful.
- Aggravated discomfort with lengthy periods of sitting or standing, or from particular sleeping postures, such as resting on the affected side for too long.
Sacroiliac joint fusion is always an elective treatment, which means the patient chooses whether or not to have surgery. When selecting whether or not to have surgery, numerous variables must be considered, including the success of nonsurgical treatments, whether or not fusion surgery will improve one’s quality of life, and the recuperation time required following surgery.
Integrated Pain Specicalists suggest nonsurgical therapies before recommending an SI Joint Fusion.
Are There Other Options?
When you visit Integrated Pain Specialists, we work with you to understand your condition and goals. We then create a customized treatment plan to help you hit those goals quickly and permanently.
This plan will always include conservative care options.
Our goal is get you out of pain as quickly as possible, and to keep you out of pain. Without physical therapy, chiropractic and conservative medical care, it is impossible for you to treat the underlying cause of most conditions.
If you have specific treatments that you want to explore, please mention them to your healthcare provider at your visit. We are here to help you hit your goals.