What is a Sacroiliac Joint Fusion procedure and How Does It Work?

Sacroiliac Joint Fusion is a minimally invasive approach to SI Joint Fusion used to treat chronic pain resulting from dysfunction of the sacroiliac joint. A small device is placed into the sacroiliac joint through a scope, and this device helps promote the natural fusion of the joint. With reduced movement in the joint from the fusion, patients recognize significant relief.

What Conditions Does A Sacroiliac Joint Fusion procedure treat ?

SI Fusion is a treatment option for chronic pain in the lower back, pelvis, or upper legs coming from the sacroiliac joint. Often times, patients with chronic sacroiliac joint pain will complete focused physical therapy and sacroiliac joint injections. Over time, these may become ineffective and SI Fusion becomes an option as a minimally invasive procedure to provide longer term relief of pain from chronic sacroiliac joint inflammation.

What to Expect from the Sacroiliac Joint Fusion procedure

The SI Fusion procedure is an outpatient procedure that usually takes about one hour to complete and is performed at a surgery center. It is generally performed with mild sedation and local numbing medication.

Risks of The SI Fusion procedure

The SI Joint fusion procedure is a relatively low risk procedure. As with most procedures, it carries the risk of infection at the procedure site, allergic reaction, bleeding, and nerve damage. Other very uncommon but potential risks include revision or reoperation. The risks will be discussed in-depth at the visit with your pain management provider.

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Our Sacroiliac Joint Procedure Process

1

Schedule An Appointment

Give us a call to schedule your appointment at one of our locations. You can also fill out our online form, and we’ll reach out to finalize your appointment.

2

Initial Appointment

During your initial appointment, our pain relief specialists will take the time to learn about your medical history, medications, x-rays and past treatments to determine if a SI Fusion procedure is right for you.

3

SI Fusion Procedure

The Sacroiliac Joint Procedure generally takes about an hour. It is usually performed with mild sedation and local numbing medication.

4

Recovery

Patients are usually able to walk around after the procedure. Overall, the fusion process may take 3-6 months following placement of the device. During this time you will meet with your doctor to discuss any activity modification.

Testimonials

"Dr. Jarzembeck is AMAZING. I HIGHLY recommend her for anyone suffering in pain. She goes above and beyond to make sure her patients pain has been dealt with."

Genia G.

"Everyone is so friendly and helpful, Dr. Bednar came to me and explained the procedure and answered my questions. Highly recommend!"

Maggie G.

"Dr. Julia is the best! The staff is professional and friendly to all. Best of all, Dr. Julia is finding solutions for my chronic pain! Never thought that it would be possible. It's a journey for me, but it seems like there is a solution."

Nancy M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the SI Fusion procedure covered by insurance?

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It is covered by Medicare and some medicare replacement plans.

How long will the benefits of a SI Fusion procedure last?

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Many studies show persistent decreased pain and improved functionality greater than 36 months.

How long is the recovery time?

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The response and fusion time are variable and different among patients. Overall, the fusion process may take 3-6 months following placement of the device. During this time you will have close follow-up and discussion with your provider to discuss any activity modification.

Lunch & Learn With Our Doctors

Curious about interventive pain treatments in Austin, TX? Join our doctors for an in-person lunch and learn session to find out more about these treatments and ask any questions you may have. This event will be 12–1pm, sign up below to receive more details and RSVP.

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Discover if the Sacroiliac Joint Procedure is right for you!

If you suffer from pain in your lower back, pelvis, or upper legs due to the sacroiliac joint, schedule an appointment with Greater Austin Pain Center to see if a SI Fusion procedure is right for you. We're proud to offer the Sacroiliac Joint Procedure at our pain centers in Austin, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and San Marcos, and our pain management doctors are ready and eager to help find a solution for your chronic pain.

Schedule an Appointment

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