What is an SI joint fusion?
An SI joint fusion is a surgical procedure to reduce pain and instability in the sacroiliac joints. The SI joints connect the sacrum — the triangle-shaped bone that sits between the pelvis — to the hip bones. Every individual has two SI joints, one on each side of the pelvis.
While the SI joints are low-motion joints that don’t open or close during movement, they do act as shock absorbers for your upper body. As a result, the SI joints can incur gradual damage that leads to pain, impacted mobility, and stiffness.
How do I know if I need an SI joint fusion?
Damaged SI joints can cause several uncomfortable and painful symptoms, including:
- Lower back pain
- Hip or groin pain
- Stiffness in the joints
- Limited mobility in the back or legs
- Lower back and pelvic instability
- Pain that worsens after standing or sitting for prolonged periods
SI joint pain can affect one or both of your joints. In general, one-sided pain is the first sign of damage. Over time, pressure from your torso can exacerbate your SI joint symptoms.
If you’re experiencing SI joint pain, the providers at Academy of Neurosurgical Physicians can perform a series of tests to diagnose your condition. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scans, X-rays, blood work, and urinalysis are common tests that your provider performs before determining your candidacy for SI joint fusion surgery.
How does an SI joint fusion work?
The goal of SI joint fusion surgery is to stimulate bone growth around the joint, which can reduce pain and restore function. During the procedure, your surgeon grafts the sacrum to the ilium, which lies at the top of the hip bone. As your body heals, the bone graft fuses to the joint to repair damage.
Depending on the severity of your condition, your neurological surgeon may utilize minimally invasive surgery to perform your procedure. This method typically involves making a small incision in the buttocks to access the damaged SI joint.
Minimally invasive SI joint fusion offers many benefits over open surgery, including reduced risk of infection, less pain and scarring, shorter recovery times, and shortened hospital stays.
To learn more about SI joint fusion, call Academy of Neurosurgical Physicians or schedule an appointment online now.
