Si joint fusions
- Sacrix
What is Sacroiliac Joint Fusion?
Sacroiliac joint fusion is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at treating chronic lower back pain caused by sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Dr. Baumgartner utilizes the Sacrix technique, which involves inserting titanium implants across the sacroiliac joint to provide stability and alleviate pain. This innovative approach ensures faster recovery and effective results.
Sacroiliac joint fusion surgery is recommended for patients with chronic pain due to sacroiliac joint dysfunction that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
- Options
Why is Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Surgery Recommended?
Sacroiliac joint fusion surgery is recommended for patients with chronic pain due to sacroiliac joint dysfunction that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
Symptoms:
- Lower back pain
- Pain in the hip, groin, or upper thigh
- Stiffness and limited mobility
- Pain when standing or sitting
Causes:
- Pregnancy-related tissue loosening
- Trauma or injury
- Arthritis
- Previous lower back surgery
- Diagnosis
Making a Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history review, physical exams, and diagnostic imaging tests such as MRI, X-rays, or CT scans. An SI joint injection with local anesthetic can confirm the SI joint as the pain source if significant pain relief is achieved.
Schedule your appointment with our pain specialists.
- Dysfunction
What is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or SI joint dysfunction, is a condition where the SI joint causes lower back and leg pain. This pain can mimic sciatica and is often due to issues with the joint itself or surrounding ligaments and muscles.
Treatment Options :
Treatment for SI joint dysfunction may include physical therapy, oral medications, and injection therapy. If these are ineffective, minimally invasive surgery such as the Sacrix technique may be considered.
- Fusion Procedure
How is the SIJ Fusion Procedure Performed?
The Sacrix technique is a safe direct percutaneous procedure allowing for faster recovery and same day treatment. The lateral-oblique approach is indicated for the treatment of sacroiliitis and sacroiliac joint disruption. This allows for direct compression and fusion of the sacroiliac joint using two lag screws.
Speak to Dr. Baumgartner about your symptoms. There are several treatment options for your pain. Find out if the Sacrix SI Joint Fusion treatment is right for you.
- Recovery
Recovery & Outlook
Recovery from SIJ fusion typically allows patients to return home the same day or the day after surgery. Full recovery may take four to six weeks, during which physical activity should be limited. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor progress and adjust the treatment as needed.
FAQs
- FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
SIJ fusion has a high success rate, especially for patients with chronic SI joint pain unresponsive to other treatments.
The procedure usually takes about 1-2 hours and is typically performed on an outpatient basis.
Potential risks include infection, bleeding, and equipment malfunction, but these are relatively rare and manageable.
Most patients can return to normal activities within four to six weeks, depending on individual recovery progress.
Many insurance plans cover SIJ fusion for chronic pain management, but it’s important to verify specific coverage details with your provider.