SI Joint Fusion

Inflammatory joint disease, degenerative joint issues, and traumatic injury are some of the most common reasons you might need SI joint fusion. Spine Surgery Specialist Tyler Smith, MD, and his team of specialists perform SI joint fusion to provide immediate joint stabilization and allow for long-term fusion. To learn more about SI joint fusion and to find out if you’re an ideal candidate, call the office in Roseville, California, or request a consultation online today.

What is SI joint fusion?

Sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion is a minimally invasive surgical option performed to provide immediate sacroiliac joint stabilization and allow long-term fusion.

Sacroiliac joints connect the hip bones to either side of the tailbone (sacrum). It’s an essential component for shock absorption to prevent impact forces from reaching the spine.

What causes SI joint pain?

The integrity of the SI joint depends on the strong ligaments that cover the joint. These ligaments stabilize the joint. SI joint pain can occur when these ligaments become injured, damaged, or degenerate due to age.

Like any other joint in the body, the SI joint can be injured or become degenerative. People can feel pain in their lower back, legs, and sometimes their buttocks when this happens. This is especially true while walking, running, lifting, or even sleeping on the involved side.

What are some symptoms and signs of needing SI joint fusion?

You may need SI joint fusion if you experience any combination of the following symptoms:

• Lower back pain
• The sensation of low extremity pain, tingling, weakness, and/or numbness
• Hip and groin pain
• Pelvis or buttock pain
• The feeling of leg instability (giving away, buckling)
• Disturbed sleep patterns due to pain
• Disturbed sitting patterns (sitting on one side, unable to sit for long periods)
• Pain going from sitting to standing

Problems in these areas can cause significant low back pain and, on occasion, cause pain in the legs and buttocks.

What can I expect from SI joint fusion procedure?

At Sierra Spine Institute, the team uses The iFuse Implant System® manufactured by SI-BONE®, Inc. This minimally invasive surgical SI joint treatment option provides stabilization and fusion of the SI joint for some causes of SI joint pain.

This is accomplished by inserting triangular-shaped titanium implants across the joint to maximize post-surgical stability and weight-bearing capacity. 

The procedure is done through a small incision and takes about an hour. SI joint treatment using the patented triangular design of the iFuse Implant™ has produced unparalleled clinical results. 

SI joint fusion occurs during the healing process following the surgery.

Do you want more information on SI joint infusion? Contact Sierra Spine Institute and let the team know how they can help. You can also schedule a consultation by calling the office or requesting more information online, which is quick and convenient.