Minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion can provide lasting relief for individuals whose daily activities are severely limited by chronic SI joint pain. Many patients experience a gradual but significant reduction in pain over the months following the procedure, allowing them to return to activities they previously couldn’t enjoy due to persistent lower back and hip discomfort.
Because it addresses the root cause of SI joint instability and eliminates painful motion, this fusion procedure may also help prevent the progressive deterioration and compensatory movement patterns that can develop from untreated SI joint dysfunction.
What is it?
Minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion is a procedure used to treat chronic SI joint dysfunction that has not responded to conservative treatments. The SI joint connects the sacrum (base of the spine) to the pelvis, and when this joint becomes inflamed or unstable, it can cause significant lower back and hip pain. This procedure stabilizes the joint by permanently fusing the bones together, eliminating painful motion.
How is it performed?
Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, your physician will make small incisions and insert specialized titanium implants with bone grafting material across the SI joint through a posterior (rear) approach. These implants are designed with a porous surface that allows bone to grow into them, creating a permanent fusion. The procedure typically takes 45-60 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia.
Treatment Benefits
Minimally invasive SI joint fusion offers long-term pain relief for those suffering from chronic sacroiliac joint dysfunction. By permanently stabilizing the joint and eliminating painful motion, the procedure can dramatically improve mobility, reduce reliance on pain medications, and restore quality of life. The minimally invasive approach preserves important ligaments and muscles around the joint, leading to faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. Many patients experience significant functional improvement and can return to activities they previously avoided due to SI joint pain.
Who Can Benefit From This Treatment
This procedure is ideal for patients with confirmed SI joint dysfunction who have not found relief through conservative treatments such as physical therapy, injections, or medications. Candidates typically have chronic lower back and hip pain that has persisted for months or years, often worsened by sitting, standing from a seated position, or climbing stairs. It is particularly beneficial for those who have had positive responses to diagnostic SI joint injections, confirming the joint as the pain source. Patients seeking a definitive solution to eliminate SI joint pain and restore long-term function are excellent candidates for this procedure.
Learn more about Sacroiliac Joint Fusion by contacting the Minimally Invasive Spine and Pain Institute—our team is here to help you explore your options.
Aftercare for Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
After SI joint fusion, patients will be on their feet, and go home the same day. Initial recovery involves mild weight-bearing restrictions and activity modifications for up to 12 weeks to allow proper healing. While some patients notice immediate improvement, full pain relief often develops gradually as the fusion process progresses over 3-6 months. Your physician will monitor your progress through follow-up appointments and imaging to ensure successful fusion and optimal healing.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Follow these guidelines to support healing after SI joint fusion:
- Weight-bearing restrictions for 12 weeks (walker or crutches may be needed)
- Pain relief may be experienced within the first few weeks, or may be gradual, over months, as the fusion process can take 3-6 months to complete.
- For the first 6 weeks, avoid bending, twisting, explosive motions, and lifting over 10 pounds. From weeks 6 to 12, gradually increase weight bearing up to 15 pounds. Still avoid excessive bending, twisting, and explosive activities. After the 3 month mark, you can gradually return to normal activities.
- Physical therapy may be recommended after initial healing period