Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Fusion in Madison, Wisconsin

Find relief for your chronic lower back pain with sacroiliac joint fusion

The sacroiliac (SI) joint, which is located in the pelvis, links the iliac bone (pelvis) to the sacrum (lowest part of the spine above the tailbone). The SI joint transfers weight and forces between your upper body and legs. When bony surfaces or ligaments are damaged due to trauma or any other condition, sacroiliac or SI joint fusion can treat the pain when other nonsurgical methods are unresponsive.

The main responsibility of your SI joint is to transfer weight and force between your leg and body. When your ligaments or bones become damaged by a spinal condition, it causes inflammation and irritation of your Si joint. As a result, you may experience pain in your abdomen, lower back, buttocks, groin, or legs.

A minimally invasive SI joint fusion is a procedure that provides stability to your SI joints by fusing your bones, typically using a bone graft. Sometimes, both SI joints need surgery; in this case, one is often treated first before the second.

SI fusion is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you’ll be able to go home the same day. It takes around an hour to complete and patients can usually can return to normal activities after a few weeks.

Learn more about this procedure by booking an appointment with our specialists. At each of our practices in Wisconsin, you’ll be treated according to your concerns and symptoms. Our board-certified spinal specialists are known for their collaborative approach, advanced techniques, and transformative surgeries.

Who Can Benefit From SI Joint Fusion?

Patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunction typically experience the following symptoms:

Hip/groin pain
Lower back pain
Buttock pain
Leg instability
Pain moving from sitting to standing
Pain radiating through legs
Disturbed sleep due to pain

To diagnose SI joint disease, we utilize tests like SI joint injection and diagnostic imaging (x-ray, CT scan). Once your diagnosis has been confirmed and you’ve tried conservative treatment options without success, we initiate treatment with SI joint fusion.

How is SI Joint Fusion Surgery Performed?

Sacroiliac joint fusion is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed on an outpatient basis, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks. During the procedure, our interventional pain physicians will use advanced imaging technology to guide the placement of screws to fuse the joint, reducing pain and restoring function.

The procedure generally takes 45 minutes to 60 minutes to complete. It is performed in our outpatient surgical Center and you will be able to go home the same day.

FAQs

What Is the Sacroiliac Joint?

The sacroiliac or SI joint is situated in the pelvis, connecting the sacrum to the iliac bones. It is an essential element for shock absorption.

How Is Sacroiliac Joint Pain Diagnosed?

It can be detected through an X-ray, an MRI, and a CT scan.

Is a Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Safe?

It is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed through an incision. It is successful and safe in most cases.

What Is the Recovery Like Following Si Joint Surgery?

On average, the recovery period for an SI joint fusion takes around 12 weeks. However, fully healing from the surgery can take up to a year. This is because your bones need to fuse with the bone graft.

Can a Damaged Si Joint Be Repaired Without Surgery?

SI joint surgery is only carried out if other treatments have been ineffective. Many patients respond well to pain medication, steroid injections, and physical therapy.

Can You Walk After Si Joint Surgery?

A few hours after your procedure, you should be able to walk. However, don't exert yourself; your provider will provide further instructions on returning to activity.