Sacroiliac Joint Fusion (SI Fusion)
What is SI Fusion Treatment?
SI Fusion Treatment, also known as Sacroiliac Joint Fusion, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to stabilize and fuse the sacroiliac joint (SI joint). The SI joint is located at the base of the spine and connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the bottom of the spine) to the ilium (the large pelvic bone). This procedure aims to address pain and dysfunction arising from the SI joint.
What to Expect
- Procedure Duration: The SI Fusion Treatment is typically a same-day procedure that lasts for a few hours.
- Pain During Procedure: You will be under anesthesia during the procedure, ensuring a pain-free experience.
- Risks: Like any surgical procedure, SI Fusion Treatment carries some risks, which your doctor will discuss with you before the procedure.
- Duration of Results: Many patients experience significant pain relief after SI Fusion Treatment, and the results can last for years or even be permanent.
- Combination with Other Treatments: Your doctor will create a personalized treatment plan, which may include SI Fusion along with other non-invasive treatments to optimize pain management.
Tips to Get Ready for the Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Procedure
Before your SI Fusion Treatment, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions, which may include fasting, adjusting medications, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
What Happens During the Procedure?
During the SI Fusion Treatment, you will be given anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Your surgeon will make a small incision near the SI joint and use advanced techniques and imaging to precisely place the implants that will fuse the joint. The procedure is carefully performed, aiming for minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Post-Operative Care
After the SI Fusion Treatment, you will spend some time in the recovery area to allow the anesthesia to wear off. Most patients can return home the same day but will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks while the fusion heals.
Your doctor will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, which may include managing pain with prescribed medications, avoiding certain movements, and gradually increasing your activity levels as advised. Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns.
FAQs About SI Fusion Treatment
A: The procedure itself is not painful since you will be under anesthesia. Some discomfort may be expected during the recovery period, but pain can generally be managed with medications and rest.
A: While SI Fusion is considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, such as infection, nerve damage, or the possibility of hardware complications. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.
A: Recovery times vary, but most patients can resume light activities after a few weeks. Full recovery may take several months.