What is SI Joint Fusion?
The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the base of your spine to your pelvis. When these joints become inflamed or unstable — a condition called sacroiliac joint dysfunction — they can cause persistent lower back, buttock, and leg pain that mimics other spine problems.
SI joint fusion is a minimally invasive procedure that stabilizes the joint by placing bone graft material and small implants across the SI joint, allowing the bones to grow together (fuse). This stops the painful motion at the joint while preserving the rest of your spine's mobility.
Dr. Rastegar performs this procedure through small incisions using fluoroscopic (live X-ray) guidance, which typically means less tissue damage, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker recovery than traditional open surgery.
When is SI Joint Fusion Recommended?
SI joint fusion may be appropriate if you have:
- Confirmed SI joint dysfunction that has not responded to conservative care
- Pain that improves temporarily with diagnostic SI joint injections
- Lower back, buttock, or leg pain originating from the sacroiliac joint
- Symptoms persisting despite physical therapy, medication, and activity modification
Note: Because SI joint pain can resemble disc or facet joint pain, an accurate diagnosis is essential. Dr. Rastegar uses physical exam findings and diagnostic injections to confirm the SI joint as the pain source before recommending fusion.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive SI Joint Fusion
- Small Incisions: Typically performed through one or two small incisions
- Less Tissue Disruption: Spares surrounding muscles and ligaments
- Shorter Recovery: Most patients walk the same day and go home within 24 hours
- Targeted Relief: Stops painful motion at the SI joint while preserving spinal mobility
Recovery Timeline
Hospital Stay
Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay. Walking is encouraged immediately after surgery.
First 2 Weeks
Limited weight-bearing with a walker or crutches as directed. Pain is managed with medication; light walking is encouraged.
Weeks 2-6
Gradual return to full weight-bearing. Physical therapy begins to restore strength and movement. Many return to desk work.
3-6 Months
Bone fusion continues to mature. Return to most normal activities, with follow-up imaging to confirm healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pain is from the SI joint?
SI joint pain can be difficult to distinguish from disc or facet problems. Dr. Rastegar uses specific physical exam tests and diagnostic injections — numbing the joint to see if pain temporarily stops — to confirm the diagnosis before recommending fusion.
Will I lose mobility after SI joint fusion?
The SI joint has very little normal motion, so fusing it typically has minimal impact on overall mobility. Most patients move and function well after recovery, with the benefit of significantly reduced pain.
How long before I can return to activity?
Walking begins immediately. Light activities resume within a few weeks, while higher-impact activities and sports are gradually reintroduced over 3 to 6 months as the fusion heals.