Sacroiliac Joint Arthrodesis (Fusion)

What is Sacroiliac Joint Arthrodesis (Fusion)?

A sacroiliac joint (SIJ) arthrodesis (fusion) is a targeted surgical intervention to the joint of the sacrum and pelvic bones, meant to target lower back pain.

What are the benefits of Sacroiliac Joint Arthrodesis?

Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain can results from inflammation or mechanical compromise of the joint. Patients often describe the pain as intense and localized pain in the low back or upper buttock region.

Common Indications:
– Chronic Low Back or Buttock Pain
Pain located around the belt line
May radiate to the groin, hip, or posterior thigh
– Pain Aggravated by Mechanical Stress
Prolonged sitting or standing
Climbing stairs, rising from a seated position
Turning in bed or getting out of a car
– Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Pain
Ligamentous laxity and pelvic instability can increase SI joint stress

Patients typically have:
– Had pain a minimum of 6 months
– Absence of other causes of low back pain
– Had confirmation of SI pain with targeted injections on two separate occasions

How does a Sacroiliac Joint Arthrodesis work?

Sacroiliac joint fusion is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to stabilize and reduce pain from the sacroiliac joint—the joint that connects the sacrum (base of the spine) to the ilium (pelvic bone). It is typically performed when conservative treatments for chronic SI joint pain have failed.

How to prepare for a Sacroiliac Joint Arthrodesis?

The first step to determine your eligibility to receive a sacroiliac joint injection is to perform a thorough physical examination and carefully consider your medical and family history.
-Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, Plavix, Eliquis, warfarin):
You will NOT need to stop them before the procedure
– Medical Clearance (if needed)
If you have heart conditions, bleeding disorders, or infections, your provider may require clearance from your primary doctor or specialist.

What to expect after the procedure?

Sacroiliac joint arthodesis is usually performed in under 40 minutes with the patient’s ability to go home the same day after a short recovery period.

Following the surgery, there may be some discomfort and stiffness at the site, which typically improves with rest and ice. We recommend our patients go home and rest.

-Activity Restrictions (limit bending, twisting, and lifting) for 2-4 weeks
– Mobility and Physical Therapy: walking as tolerated, formal physical therapy