Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Fusion for Pain Management
Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Fusion
Treatment Overview
Sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion is commonly used to treat SI joint pain and instability. This minimally invasive procedure aims to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain and support your return to everyday activities. Compared to open fusion surgeries, minimally invasive techniques generally offer fewer complications and a faster recovery.1,2
SI Joint Fusion Technologies
When other treatments for sacroiliac (SI) joint pain aren’t providing relief, fusion technologies may be an option. These advanced systems use small implants to reinforce the connection between the sacrum and ilium, helping limit motion in the joint. The goal is long-term relief by addressing the underlying cause of pain—joint instability. Different technologies offer varying approaches to placement and fixation, but all aim to improve comfort and restore function.
Liberty SI™ Fusion System
The Liberty SI™ Fusion System is used to treat sacroiliac (SI) joint problems like joint instability or inflammation. During the procedure, one or two small titanium implants are placed across the SI joint to help stabilize it and encourage the bones to fuse together. This can reduce pain caused by too much movement in the joint. The procedure uses a side (lateral) approach, which may lower the risk of certain complications and help you recover more comfortably.
Patriot SI ™ Posterior Implant System
The Patriot SI™ is a small implant designed to stabilize and help fuse the sacroiliac (SI) joint, which connects your spine to your pelvis. It’s made of titanium and coated with a material that may help the bones fuse more effectively. During the procedure, the implant is placed from the back (posterior approach) between the sacrum and ilium using special threading to keep it secure. This can help reduce pain caused by too much movement in the joint.
Who Benefits from an SI Joint Fusion Procedure
SI joint fusion may be a suitable treatment for those with SI joint dysfunction when:
- Nonsurgical approaches like injections, medication, or physical therapy have not been effective
- Alternative diagnoses have been excluded
- Relief is achieved from a series of 2-3 SI joint injections, lasting several hours immediately after the procedure
What to Expect
- Preparation: The SI joint fusion is performed at our same-day surgery center. Local anesthesia or sedation will be provided to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
- Procedure: A small incision is made in the buttocks, and advanced imaging guides the placement of devices to stabilize the sacroiliac joint. This minimally invasive procedure typically takes less than an hour.
- Recovery: You’ll be monitored for a short time after the procedure. A small bandage will cover the incision, and you should be able to return home the same day.
Insurance & Billing
Your eligibility for any procedure depends on the benefits outlined by your insurance provider, and our team at Nura will assist you with the authorization process.
Comprehensive Care
At Nura, we seamlessly integrate interventional procedures, physical therapy, psychological support and medications. Research shows that this comprehensive approach is the most effective way to manage chronic pain.
1. Kube RA, Muir JM. Sacroiliac Joint Fusion: One Year Clinical and Radiographic Results Following Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Surgery. Open Orthop J. 2016;10:679-689.
2. Ledonio CG, Polly DW, Swiontkowski MF, Cummings JT. Comparative effectiveness of open versus minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion. Med Devices (Auckl). 2014;7:187-93.
Find Pain Relief
Schedule an appointment with one of our pain specialists by filling out our appointment request form or giving us a call at 763-537-6000.
