SI joint fusion is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. This means that you will be able to go home the same day as your surgery. The surgery itself will take about an hour. You will be given general anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
After making small incisions in the skin over the sacroiliac joint, your surgeon will move aside the gluteal muscles to reach the sacroiliac joint. A guide pin will then be inserted and used to drill a hole into the ilium so that it reaches the sacrum. A bone graft may also be placed into the joint space if needed. The implant will then be guided into the drilled passage. Your surgeon will use screws and/or wires to secure the implant in place.
After SI joint fusion, you can expect to experience some pain and swelling. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you manage this. You will likely need to take it easy for the first few weeks after surgery and you may be given a cane or walker to reduce stress on the joint as it heals. You will also need to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity, and you may be given physical therapy exercises to complete. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within six weeks, however a full recovery can take up to six months. SI joint fusion is a safe and effective surgical procedure for treating sacroiliac joint pain. If you are experiencing pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs that has not responded to conservative treatment options, talk to our team at Relevium about whether SI joint fusion is right for you
Contact us today at 973-200-4695 to schedule an appointment.
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