Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Fusion Surgery at Gerling Spine Care NYC

At Gerling Spine Care NY, we specialize in providing advanced treatment options for SI Joint dysfunction. One of the most effective procedures for treating sacroiliac joint pain is SI Joint Fusion, a minimally invasive surgical solution that targets the source of pain and provides long-term relief. Our team, led by experienced spine specialist Dr. Michael Gerling, is committed to restoring your mobility, alleviating your discomfort, and improving your quality of life.

What is the Sacroiliac (SI) Joint?

The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the bottom of the spine) to the ilia (the large bones that form the sides of the pelvis). These joints are critical for transferring weight and forces between the upper body and the lower extremities. Although the SI joints are relatively stable and experience limited movement, they can become painful due to various conditions, such as injury, inflammation, or degeneration.

Causes of SI Joint Pain

Pain in the SI joint is often the result of conditions such as:

Degenerative Arthritis: Wear and tear on the joint over time can lead to inflammation and pain.
Trauma or Injury: Accidents, falls, or sports injuries can cause instability or damage to the SI joint.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase mobility in the SI joint, potentially causing pain.
Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one vertebra slips over another can lead to misalignment and strain on the SI joint.
Infection or Inflammation: Conditions like sacroiliitis can result in inflammation of the SI joint, causing significant pain.

Medical professional applying pressure to someone's lower back

When is SI Joint Fusion Surgery Recommended?

If conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, or injections, do not provide sufficient relief, your doctor may recommend SI Joint Fusion. This surgical procedure is typically considered when:

You have persistent SI joint pain that has not improved with non-surgical treatments.
The pain is severe and affects your ability to perform daily activities.
Imaging tests and diagnostic injections confirm that the SI joint is the primary source of pain.

What is SI Joint Fusion Surgery?

SI Joint Fusion (also known as SI Joint Arthrodesis) is a surgical procedure designed to stabilize the sacroiliac joint by fusing the bones together. The goal of the surgery is to eliminate the painful movement in the joint, which leads to significant relief from discomfort and improved function.

There are several types of SI Joint Fusion techniques, including:

Minimally Invasive SI Joint Fusion: This is the most common approach used at Gerling Spine Care NY. It involves small incisions and specialized instruments to access the SI joint, remove any damaged tissue, and insert implants (such as screws or rods) to stabilize the joint and promote fusion.
Open SI Joint Fusion: In some cases, an open surgery approach may be necessary. This involves a larger incision to provide more direct access to the joint.
Bone Graft and Implantation: In addition to using hardware for stabilization, bone graft material may be added to encourage the bones to fuse together naturally.

SI Joint Fusion Procedure

The SI Joint Fusion procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. Here is an overview of what to expect:

Incision: The surgeon will make small incisions, usually on the side of the hip, to access the sacroiliac joint.
Preparation of the Joint: The surgeon will remove any damaged or arthritic tissue and prepare the joint for fusion.
Implantation of Hardware: Depending on the technique, the surgeon may insert screws, rods, or other implants to stabilize the joint and promote the healing process.
Final Adjustment and Closure: Once the hardware is in place, the surgeon will check for correct alignment and close the incisions with sutures.

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, and in many cases, patients are able to go home the same day or the day after surgery.

Advantages of SI Joint Fusion Surgery

SI Joint Fusion offers several key benefits:

Long-Term Pain Relief: By stabilizing the SI joint, the procedure effectively eliminates pain caused by joint instability or degeneration.
Improved Function: SI Joint Fusion helps restore mobility and the ability to perform daily activities without discomfort.
Minimally Invasive Option: When performed using minimally invasive techniques, SI Joint Fusion involves smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and a faster recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.
Quick Recovery: Most patients experience a quicker recovery period with less pain, reduced hospital stays, and a faster return to daily activities.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Recovery from SI Joint Fusion surgery varies from patient to patient, but typically includes:

Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. Some may even be discharged the same day if the procedure was minimally invasive.
Pain Management: After surgery, your doctor will prescribe pain medications to help manage discomfort during the initial recovery phase.
Physical Therapy: Once you have healed sufficiently, physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility around the joint.
Activity Restrictions: During the recovery period, you will need to avoid certain activities, such as lifting heavy objects or excessive bending, to allow the joint to heal properly.
Recovery Timeline: Most patients can return to light activities within a few weeks, with full recovery typically taking 6 to 12 months as the fusion process progresses.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications associated with SI Joint Fusion, including:

Infection
Nerve damage
Blood clots
Implant failure or loosening
Non-union (failure of the bones to fuse properly)
Persistent pain or discomfort

Your surgeon at Gerling Spine Care NY will work with you to minimize these risks and ensure the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Gerling Spine Care NY?

At Gerling Spine Care NY, we are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care for patients with SI joint pain. Dr. Michael Gerling and our experienced team of specialists utilize advanced, minimally invasive techniques to help you achieve lasting relief and return to an active, pain-free lifestyle. We understand that every patient is unique, which is why we provide personalized care plans tailored to your specific condition and goals. Our commitment to excellence, combined with the latest research and technologies, ensures that you receive the best possible treatment for your SI joint dysfunction.

If you are suffering from SI joint pain and conservative treatments are no longer providing relief, contact Gerling Spine Care NY today to schedule a consultation and learn how our specialized team can help you regain function and alleviate pain through SI Joint Fusion surgery.