Sacroiliac Joint Fusion

If you have persistent low back, buttock, or hip pain that has not responded to rest, therapy, or injections, sacroiliac joint fusion may be an option to consider. This procedure is aimed at reducing motion and pain in the sacroiliac joint, which connects the base of the spine to the pelvis. The treatment is usually considered only after conservative care has failed. At Princeton Orthopaedic Associates we help you understand whether fusion is appropriate for your situation. The goal is to lessen pain and improve daily function while keeping recovery time as short as possible.

Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Details

The sacroiliac joint sits between the sacrum, which is the triangular bone at the base of your spine, and the ilium, which is part of the pelvis. Ligaments and small muscles help stabilize the joint. When the joint becomes a source of pain, it can come from arthritis, injury, or abnormal motion. Sacroiliac joint fusion is a surgical treatment that joins the sacrum and ilium so the joint no longer moves, which can reduce pain. It is recommended for people with clear sacroiliac joint pain that has not improved with physical therapy, medications, or injections.

This procedure is not recommended when the pain comes from another source, such as a herniated disc or hip joint disease that has not been addressed. It is also not appropriate for people who have active infection near the joint, or those who are not medically cleared for surgery. Your orthopaedic surgeon will evaluate imaging and response to diagnostic injections to determine if the sacroiliac joint is the source of pain.

What Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Includes

Sacroiliac joint fusion is most often performed using a minimally invasive approach. Small incisions are made, and specialized implants or bone graft material are placed across the joint to encourage the sacrum and ilium to grow together. Minimally invasive techniques use smaller cuts, X-ray guidance, and instruments that limit damage to nearby muscles and soft tissues.

The implants or graft act as a bridge that stabilizes the joint while new bone forms. Over time the joint becomes solid and stops moving, which can relieve pain caused by abnormal motion or arthritis. Because the incision and soft tissue disruption are smaller with the minimally invasive approach, patients typically have less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and shorter initial recovery than with large open surgeries.

Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Recovery

After surgery you can expect to spend a short time in a recovery area and then either go home the same day or stay overnight, depending on your surgeon's plan. Early activity focuses on walking and avoiding positions that stress the fusion site. Your team will give specific instructions about sitting, bending, lifting, and driving.

Physical therapy is commonly used in the weeks after surgery to restore strength and normal movement. Full fusion and the best pain relief can take several months. Factors that can slow recovery include smoking, diabetes, obesity, and other medical problems, so your surgeon will discuss ways to reduce those risks before and after surgery.

Benefits and Risks of Sacroiliac Joint Fusion

Primary benefits of sacroiliac joint fusion include reduced joint motion, which often lowers pain, and improved ability to perform daily activities. Because many procedures use a minimally invasive approach, recovery can be quicker and less painful than traditional open surgery.

• Reduced pain when the sacroiliac joint is the actual source.
• Improved stability when the joint is unstable or arthritic.
• Smaller incisions and shorter hospital time with minimally invasive techniques.

As with any surgery there are risks. These can include infection, bleeding, damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels, blood clots, stiffness, and persistent pain if fusion does not fully relieve symptoms. Your orthopaedic surgeon will review the risks with you and explain how they apply to your health.

Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Patient Guidance

Please make sure to note these are only general information and you should consult a doctor. Before surgery you may be asked to stop certain medications such as blood thinners, to fast for several hours, and to arrange transportation for your trip home. Your surgeon will give specific, personalized instructions during your preoperative visit.

During recovery you will likely need to limit heavy lifting, twisting, and prolonged sitting for several weeks. You may return to light work within a few weeks, and more demanding activities over several months as your surgeon and therapist advise. Following postoperative instructions closely helps improve your chances of a good result.

Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Quick FAQs

Will fusion stop my sacroiliac pain? Many patients with confirmed sacroiliac joint pain experience meaningful pain relief after fusion, but results vary by individual.

Is the procedure minimally invasive? Yes, most modern sacroiliac joint fusions use small incisions and guided instruments to reduce tissue damage and speed recovery.

How long until I can return to work? Return to work depends on your job and health, often ranging from a few weeks for light work to several months for heavier duties.