Chronic pelvic and lower back pain can often be traced to instability or dysfunction within the sacroiliac (SI) joint. When conservative treatments no longer provide lasting relief, a minimally invasive SI joint fusion procedure may offer the long-term stability needed to move forward with confidence.
At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, we specialize in helping patients manage chronic joint and spine pain without unnecessary surgery. Our experienced team in Atlanta focuses on accurate diagnosis, conservative therapies, and minimally invasive options to relieve pain and improve mobility. If you are living with unresolved SI joint pain, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about your options.
Below, we walk you through a step-by-step guide to the minimally invasive SI joint fusion procedure, so you can better understand what to expect at every stage.
Understanding the SI Joint and Why Fusion Is Needed
The sacroiliac joints connect the sacrum (the lower part of the spine) to the pelvis. These joints are crucial for stability, helping transfer weight between the upper and lower body. When there is excessive motion, trauma, arthritis, or inflammation at this joint, patients may experience sacroiliac joint pain, a common symptom often confused with lower back pain.
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction can cause ongoing discomfort in the back, buttocks, or hips, often worsening with activities like walking, standing, or climbing stairs. If conservative measures fail to reduce pain, and imaging confirms SI joint involvement, sacroiliac joint fusion becomes a recommended option for many patients seeking a long-term solution.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Minimally Invasive Procedure
1. Pre-Operative Preparation
Before surgery, patients meet with their care team for a thorough evaluation, including a detailed review of symptoms, diagnostic imaging, and medical history. Diagnostic injections or radiofrequency ablation may be performed to confirm the SI joint as the primary source of pain. Patients also receive detailed instructions about medications, fasting, and the day-of-surgery process. This preparation ensures that the surgical plan is safe, targeted, and customized for each patient.
2. Anesthesia and Positioning
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia to keep patients comfortable and still. Once asleep, patients are carefully positioned face-down on the operating table to allow access to the SI joint from the posterior approach, near the posterior superior iliac spine. Proper positioning is essential for optimal access and precise implant placement.
3. Small Incision and Access
Using a small incision (typically less than two inches), the surgeon carefully creates a pathway to the SI joint. Fluoroscopic imaging—a real-time X-ray technique—is used throughout the procedure to guide the instruments precisely to the joint space. This minimally invasive access helps protect muscles, ligaments, and surrounding tissues during the procedure.
4. Implant Placement
After preparing the SI joint by removing any damaged tissue, the surgeon places a single implant or a set of implants across the joint to stabilize it. These implants encourage bone growth over time, promoting a natural and lasting fusion. The implants are specifically designed to restore joint stability while minimizing surgical trauma.
5. Closing the Incision
Once the implant placement is confirmed using imaging, the incision is carefully closed with sutures or surgical adhesive. A sterile dressing is applied to protect the area during initial healing. Closing the incision with minimal disruption helps reduce infection risk and support a faster recovery.
6. Immediate Post-Operative Care
After surgery, patients are monitored closely for a brief period before being discharged home, often on the same day. Discharge instructions cover wound care, activity restrictions, medications for pain management, and ways to prevent infection.
Following these post-operative guidelines is key to promoting healing and ensuring a smooth recovery.
Recovery Timeline and Expected Outcomes
Recovery from SI joint fusion using a minimally invasive sacroiliac joint technique is generally faster and easier than with traditional open surgery.
- First Few Days: Mild swelling and discomfort are normal. Pain medications help manage early recovery symptoms. Patients are encouraged to walk short distances.
- Few Weeks Post-Surgery: Most patients transition from limited movement to more normal activities, while avoiding strenuous bending or lifting.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapy program often begins several weeks after surgery to rebuild strength and flexibility without straining the healing SI joint.
- Three to Six Months: Bone growth continues around the implant, resulting in improved joint stability. Patients report gradual increases in activity level and pain relief.
Most patients experience significant improvement in quality of life, with a reduction in chronic pain and enhanced mobility over the long term.
Advantages Over Traditional Surgical Methods
The minimally invasive SI joint fusion procedure offers several advantages compared to open procedures:
- Smaller incision means less muscle disruption and faster healing.
- Reduced risk of complications such as infection and blood loss.
- Shorter operating time and quicker return home.
- Less postoperative pain due to preservation of surrounding muscles and ligaments.
- Faster return to weight-bearing activities and daily life.
- Lower revision rates compared to older open orthopedic techniques.
Thanks to advances in surgical techniques and implant technology, many patients today achieve long-term benefits without the extended downtime associated with traditional surgeries.
Why Choose The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists?
At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, we offer expert care for patients living with SI joint dysfunction. Our experienced team focuses on accurate diagnosis, conservative management whenever possible, and coordination of minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion procedures when needed.
We are proud to provide:
- Comprehensive diagnosis including imaging, physical exams, and injection-based confirmation
- Conservative-first philosophy, using therapies like physical therapy and joint injections before recommending surgery
- Coordination with skilled orthopedic surgeons specializing in minimally invasive SI joint fusion
- Personalized recovery plans to help you heal fully and restore mobility
If you are searching for SI joint doctors near me, you can trust our team to guide you toward the safest and most effective care.
Move Toward Lasting SI Joint Pain Relief
The minimally invasive SI joint fusion procedure offers an effective path to reduce pain, restore joint stability, and help you return to a more active life. The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists are here to guide you through every step with expert care and individualized support.
Schedule your appointment with The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists today or call (770) 679-7000 to explore if minimally invasive SI joint fusion is the right solution for your pain.
