pic

What is a minimally invasive SI fusion?

A minimally invasive procedure is performed through a small incision. When fusing the SI joint, your provider uses one incision made in your back, together with specialized devices produced by PainTeq® called the LinQ SI Joint Stabilization System.

Why would I need a minimally invasive SI fusion?

Your SI joints connect the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of your spine) to your left and right hip bones. The SI joints are different from others in your body.

Most joints are designed to move, but the SI joints have limited movement because they’re designed to provide stability, absorb shock, and distribute pressure (caused by movement) between your upper and lower body.

Although the joints can get too tight, SI joint pain frequently occurs when one or both joints get too loose, allowing the joint to move too much (hypermobility).

Hypermobility arises from inflammation (sacroiliitis), a condition that’s often caused by the following:

  • Arthritis
  • Sports injuries
  • Ligament sprains
  • Failed SI surgery
  • Slipped lumbar vertebra (spondylolisthesis)
  • Sacral fracture (caused by osteoporosis)
  • Prior lumbar fusion surgery
  • Repetitive, high-impact activities like jogging

In addition to causing SI joint pain, there’s a good chance you’ll have lower back pain. You may also have discomfort in your hip, buttock, groin, or legs.

What happens during an SI joint fusion?

After making the incision, your provider begins the procedure by inserting a specially designed pin through the incision and into the joint. Then they guide a narrow, hollow tube-like device (cannula) over the pin and slightly open the joint.

For the next step, they remove the pin and insert a small bone graft into the joint. The graft contains substances that promote new bone growth, encouraging the two bones to grow together and accelerating fusion. 

Fusing the hip bone to the sacrum restores SI joint stability and relieves your pain.

The fusion procedure takes less than an hour. You can leave the outpatient surgery center shortly after your SI fusion is finished. You return to all your usual activities over the next few weeks, adding more activities as you heal.

If you have lower back, SI joint, or hip pain, call Pain Consultants of Atlanta or book an appointment online today.