If chronic sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction is causing persistent lower back, buttock, or hip pain, SI joint fusion may provide lasting relief. At Grossman Spine, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. Seth Grossman takes a patient-first approach, always exploring non-surgical options first before recommending minimally invasive solutions such as SI joint fusion.
Relieve Pain Caused by Joint Instability
SI joint fusion, also known as sacroiliac joint fusion, is a surgical procedure to stabilize the sacroiliac joint: the connection between the spine and pelvis. When this joint becomes unstable or damaged, it can cause chronic lower back, buttock, hip, or leg pain. During the procedure, implants are placed across the SI joint to limit painful movement and encourage the bones to fuse together over time and improve stability.
What Does SI Joint Fusion Treat?
SI joint fusion treats chronic pain and instability caused by conditions affecting the sacroiliac joint. It may be recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide relief, and the SI joint is the primary source of your symptoms. Conditions and symptoms that may be treated with SI joint fusion include:
- Chronic sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Sacroiliac joint instability
- Degenerative sacroiliitis
- Traumatic SI joint injuries
- Sacroiliac joint degeneration caused by arthritis
- Chronic lower back pain originating from the SI joint
What Happens During SI Joint Fusion?
SI joint fusion is typically performed using a minimally invasive approach under general anesthesia. Dr. Grossman makes a small incision near the buttock and uses imaging guidance to access the sacroiliac joint. Specialized instruments prepare the joint, and one or more implants are carefully placed across it to stabilize the bones, minimize painful movement, and encourage natural bone fusion over time.
Throughout the procedure, Dr. Grossman carefully protects the surrounding muscles, nerves, and soft tissues to minimize disruption. Once the implants are securely positioned, the incision is closed with sutures or surgical adhesive. You will then be monitored in the recovery area before returning home or staying overnight, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
Benefits of SI Joint Fusion:
- Reduces painful movement within the sacroiliac joint
- Improves stability between the spine and pelvis
- Helps restore mobility and daily function
- Makes walking, standing, and sitting more comfortable
- May decrease dependence on pain medications
- Supports a return to work, exercise, and everyday activities
- Uses minimally invasive techniques with smaller incisions
- Results in less disruption to surrounding muscles and soft tissues
- Often allows for a faster recovery than traditional open surgery
- Encourages the joint to fuse for lasting stability
FAQs
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery varies from person to person, but many patients return to light daily activities within a few weeks. During the healing process, you may need to use crutches or a walker temporarily to limit weight-bearing on the affected side. Physical therapy and gradual activity progression help restore strength and mobility while the joint continues to fuse over several months.
Will the Implants Stay in My Body Permanently?
Yes. The implants used during SI joint fusion remain in place permanently. They stabilize the joint after surgery while supporting long-term bone growth across the joint. Once fusion occurs, the implants continue to provide structural support and do not need to be removed.
Will I Lose Mobility After SI Joint Fusion?
Most patients do not notice a significant loss of movement because the sacroiliac joint normally has very little motion. The goal of the procedure is to eliminate painful, abnormal movement while preserving your ability to walk, sit, stand, and perform daily activities comfortably.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Dr. Seth Grossman is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon and fellowship-trained spine specialist known for his patient-first approach and expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery. Serving patients throughout New Jersey, he carefully explores conservative treatments before recommending surgery. If chronic SI joint pain is limiting your life, schedule a consultation with Dr. Grossman to learn whether SI joint fusion is the right treatment for you.
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