Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Treatment
In Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida and Virginia
Sacroiliac joint (SI joint) fusions are a minimally invasive treatment option for those suffering from pain caused by SI joint dysfunction. If you feel like you've tried everything to reduce your chronic joint pain, but nothing seems to work, a sacroiliac joint fusion may be right for you.
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Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Procedure
Recent studies of SI joint fusion have shown a success rate of up to 82% in reducing chronic pain caused by sacroiliac joint dysfunction. This cutting-edge therapy involves the fusion of the sacrum and iliac bones, stabilizing the joint and providing lasting pain relief.
Compared to traditional surgeries and medications that come with a high risk of complications and prolonged recovery times, SI joint fusion treatment is considered safer and less invasive. In fact, most patients can return to their normal activities within a few weeks of the procedure.
To learn more about the fusion procedure, candidates, recovery time, and other frequently asked questions, use the resource buttons listed below. If you are ready to speak with one of our SI joint specialists, use our contact form here to schedule a new patient consultation or give us a call here.
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Great office, good people. Been there quite a few years. Never a problem. Leave them a message, they always respond. I've had six back surgeries 2knees and right shoulder. Gregg keeps my chronic debilitating pain managed well so I can still live my life best I can. Im so grateful.
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Dr. Rao. I can't find the words to tell you how much he has meant to me. I followed him from an old practice to his very new high tech office. They offer so many different areas of assistance to those with issues from nutrition to spinal surgery... and much more. His office is professional.
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Dr. Rao is such an amazing doctor! During my first visit, he never tried to rush through my appt.; he genuinely listened to all my concerns and then took his time to explain to me in detail all his recommendations and how they would help me.
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Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Treatment Guide
Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Digital Guide
Our board-certified back pain specialist doctors specialize in minimally invasive treatments like the Sacroiliac Joint Fusion. Download our guide to learn more about our comprehensive services focussed on pain management for chronic pain
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What is a Sacroiliac Joint Fusion?
A sacroiliac joint fusion is a minimally invasive procedure that is primarily used to treat sacroiliac joint pain caused by sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The purpose of SI joint fusion surgery is to reduce pain by stabilizing the joint by preventing movement.
Understanding the Sacroiliac Joint
The sacroiliac joint, situated in the pelvis, acts as a crucial connection between the iliac bones and sacrum. It serves a vital function in shock absorption, effectively mitigating forces to safeguard the spine from potential damage. By providing stability and support, the sacroiliac joint contributes significantly to maintaining proper alignment and overall spinal health.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction and SI Joint Pain
SI joint dysfunction is a condition where the joint connecting your spine and your pelvis isn't functioning as it should. When your SI joint isn't working correctly, it can cause discomfort or even significant pain, referred to as sacroiliac joint pain. Some common signs and symptoms of SI joint pain caused by SI joint dysfunction include:
How Do SI Joint Fusions Reduce Pain?
During the procedure, one or both sides of the sacrum at the bottom of the spine are grafted to the ilium, which is part of the pelvis, to encourage bone growth across the sacroiliac joint. Multiple implants are also inserted to help further stabilize and prevent movement of the joint. This effectively reduces pain caused by the movement of this joint and can significantly reduce chronic SI joint dysfunction. Additionally, a fusion helps to minimize the stress that is placed on the remaining joints in your spine.
Watch Our Video Overview SI Joint Fusions
This brief overview of SI joint fusions is hosted by Dr. Sudhir Rao of Pain and Spine Specialists:
Why Choose Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Treatment for SI Joint Pain?
Recent research has shown that the procedure is effective in reducing pain and improving function and quality of life for many patients.
A study published in the Journal of Spinal Disorders and Techniques about the long-term effects of SI joint fusion in 2020 reported an 82% SI joint fusion success rate. The study followed 137 patients who underwent the procedure and found that they experienced significant reductions in pain, as well as improvements in mobility and functionality. Additionally, a vast majority of patients reported being highly satisfied with the outcomes of the procedure both in the short and long term.
Complications for sacroiliac joint fusion are low, with most complications being mild. In a recent study, only 3.8% of patients reported complications and required a revision surgery.
3.8% incidences of revision surgery were reported, which demonstrates the long-lasting effectiveness and reliability of this procedure. - NIH
In one study, after 6 months, the success rates were 81.4% in a group that had sacroiliac joint fusion. - Intl. Journal of Spine Surgery
Sacroiliac joint pain affects between up to 30% of individuals with chronic, non-radicular pain. - NIH
Candidates for a Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Treatment
If you are struggling with chronic SI joint pain due to sacroiliac joint dysfunction and have not had success with nonsurgical treatment options like medications and physical therapy, then a sacroiliac fusion may be the next step.
Diagnosing SI Joint Dysfunction
At Pain and Spine Specialists, we understand how frustrating it can be to experience chronic pain without a clear diagnosis. When a patient comes to us with complaints of lower back pain, we begin by differentiating between conditions that affect the spinal column, hips, or the sacroiliac joint.
We do this with a thorough consultation and diagnostic process that allows us to locate the exact source of your pain. The process includes:
- 1Review of Medical History: Your path to recovery starts by reviewing your medical history. Understanding your past health concerns, current symptoms, and previous treatments allows us to gain a comprehensive perspective of your health situation. This step is crucial in identifying potential causes of your pain and determining if you might be a candidate for minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion.
- 2Physical Examination: Next, our specialists conduct a physical examination. This involves assessing your pain levels, range of motion, and overall physical condition. Through various maneuvers and tests, we aim to isolate the source of your discomfort, thereby helping us identify if the SI joint is indeed the root cause of your pain.
- 3Diagnostic Imaging: For a more detailed view of your internal structures, we use diagnostic imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. These images provide us with invaluable information about the state of your SI joint and can often reveal abnormalities or changes that may be contributing to your pain.
- 4Nerve Tests: If necessary, nerve tests may also be conducted. These tests help us understand how your nerves are functioning and can provide clues about whether nerve damage or irritation is contributing to your SI joint pain.
- 5Diagnostic Nerve Blocks using SI Injections: Finally, one of the most definitive ways to diagnose SI joint dysfunction is through a diagnostic SI joint injection. This procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic into the SI joint. If your pain significantly decreases following the injection, it's likely that the SI joint is the source of your pain.
Once we've completed this comprehensive diagnostic process, and if your symptoms and examination results align with SI joint dysfunction, we can start to consider sacroiliac joint fusion as a potential treatment option. This decision is always made in collaboration with you, taking into account your personal needs and preferences.
Common Signs, Symptoms, and Causes
Pain is one of the primary symptoms of SI joint dysfunction, specifically chronic lower back pain and leg pain. Pain can worsen when lifting, running, walking, and even sleeping on the affected side. Some common signs and symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include:
- Sudden and traumatic injury or accident
- Arthritis
- Tissue loosening due to pregnancy
- Previous lower back surgery
- A preexisting condition (i.e.differences in leg length, muscle imbalance)
SI Joint Fusion Procedure Overview
After receiving a diagnosis and attempting several nonsurgical treatment options to relieve your SI joint pain, a sacroiliac joint fusion procedure is often the next step. SI joint fusion is a minimally invasive procedure that helps to reduce the pain in your joint while also providing increased stability.
Here is a video overview of the procedure:
The SI Joint Fusion Recovery Process
As a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, patients typically start walking within hours of the procedure, with many able to resume work and light activities in two to three weeks.
Following the procedure, our physicians may recommend specific limitations to facilitate optimal healing and recovery. It is important to note that the recovery times may differ for each patient as individual circumstances vary. Similarly, the ability to resume work or engage in other essential daily activities varies based on personal circumstances. Rest assured, our medical team will provide tailored guidance to support your recovery journey.
Some general guidelines to consider Are:
2 Weeks Post Procedure
Avoid driving.
Bathe regularly to ensure surgical wound is clean.
Monitor and keep the incision clean and dry daily. Check for an increase in redness, swelling, or drainage.
6 Weeks Post-Procedure
Avoid heavy lifting (10 pounds or more).
Avoid use of NSAIDs
Avoid stressful activity - especially that which requires extensive bending or lifting.
12 Weeks Post-Procedure
Avoid stressful physical activity such as weight lifting, running.
On-Going Treatment and Expectations
Symptoms such as incisional pain or soreness may continue for several weeks, and patients are advised to practice pain management techniques during sacroiliac joint fusion recovery, including icing the surgical site and taking pain medication as needed. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the healing process, and the doctor may make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
By following the instructions provided by the doctor, patients can avoid continued pain after SI joint fusion and enjoy a pain-free life.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
Our patients have found advantages of undergoing sacroiliac joint fusion surgery to reduce their SI joint pain symptoms.
Minimally Invasive Procedure
Minimally invasive SI fusion with VYRSA involves smaller incisions, resulting in less disruption to surrounding tissues and muscles and minimal scarring.
Reduced Risk of Complications
Minimally invasive techniques are associated with lower rates of
SI joint fusion complications such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage due to the smaller incisions and less invasive approach.
More Pain Control
Is SI joint fusion surgery painful? Minimally invasive SI fusion may result in less post-operative pain compared to open surgery. This can lead to a more comfortable recovery period and reduce the need for strong pain medications.
Long-Term Pain Relief
Numerous studies have shown that minimally invasive SI fusion can achieve comparable long-term outcomes to open surgery in terms of pain relief and functional improvement, making it a viable option for patients seeking a durable solution for SI joint dysfunction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore some of the most common questions we receive about sacroiliac joint fusion treatment at Pain and Spine Specialists.
Other SI Joint pain treatment options include physical therapy, steroid injections, radiofrequency ablation, and medication.
Sacroiliac joint fusion is a safe procedure with low risk when performed by an experienced surgeon. As with any surgery, there are risks involved, but serious complications are rare.
Minimally invasive SI fusion may result in less post-operative pain compared to open surgery. This can lead to a more comfortable recovery period and reduce the need for strong pain medications.
Physical therapy can be an important part of the recovery process to help strengthen the back and surrounding muscles.
It is important to note that the recovery times may differ for each patient as individual circumstances vary. Some patients ask "How soon can I drive after SI joint fusion surgery"? Usually, it is between four to eight weeks, but that depends on the patient.
Similarly, the ability to resume work or engage in other essential daily activities varies based on personal circumstances. Rest assured, our medical team will provide tailored guidance to support your recovery journey.
Pain levels will vary, but most patients report significant pain relief and increased mobility/function. Medication can help manage any discomfort during recovery.
Insurance typically covers sacroiliac joint fusion if it is deemed medically necessary. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific plan.
Yes, if SI I is not appropriate or desired, your doctor may recommend alternative options like physical therapy or injections. A customized treatment plan will be developed based on your condition and preferences.
Follow-up care may include additional imaging, medication management, and physical therapy. Close monitoring in the months after surgery is important to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Schedule Your SI Joint Fusion with Pain and Spine Specialists
The SI fusion procedure has mhelped people experiencing chronic pain find relief when traditional treatments have not been effective. If you have lived with pain for an extended period of time and have tried other treatments without much success, then SI fusion surgery may be right for you.
Before pursuing treatment, it is imperative to consult with a pain management doctor to get an accurate diagnosis before pursuing any treatment options. At Pain and Spine Specialists, our team of advanced pain specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to help our patients reduce their pain and embrace minimally invasive SI joint fusion recovery.
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We are a comprehensive pain management practice with board certified Aurora Zip doctors in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
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Treatment Candidates
Patients with the following conditions may be candidates for an Sacroiliac Joint Fusion:
Related Pain Regions
Sacroiliac Joint Fusion is often used to treat pain in the following regions:
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Meet Our Team
Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Specialists in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida and Virginia
At Pain and Spine Specialists, we have over 20 years of experience in pain management, specializing in interventional treatments like SI joint fusions. Our board-certified doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners work together to provide effective and minimally invasive treatment options to patients in Maryland, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
We understand that each patient has unique health needs, which is why we take the time to get to know you and your condition. Whether you are experiencing pain caused by SI joint dysfunction, chronic back pain, or other conditions, we are here to provide you with the best care possible.
