SI Joint Dysfunction
Diagnosis & Understanding
3. Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
1:55
4. Pseudosciatica
1:48
5. SI Joint Injection
1:49
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
1. Physical Therapy
1:35
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
2:08
3. Bracing
1:30
6. Regenerative Medicine
2:06
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
SI Joint Fusion - Posterior Allograft Approach
1746882278
For patients with sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, posterior allograft SI fusion is a minimally invasive procedure to stabilize the joint and reduce pain. It involves placing a biologic allograft (donor bone tissue) into the SI joint through a small incision in the lower back. The allograft promotes natural bone growth, helping the joint fuse and restore stability.
Preparing your body for surgery is crucial. Following an anti-inflammatory diet and taking nutritional supplements can help in healing. Refrain from eating for 8 hours before the procedure, but clear liquids are usually allowed up to 2 hours prior. If you're on blood thinners, adhere to your doctor’s advice on stopping them. Clean the surgical site with a pre-surgical wash like Hibiclens® to reduce infection risk. Wear loose clothing and arrange assistance for a ride home.
After surgery, avoid bending, twisting, and lifting over 10 pounds for at least 6 weeks to aid healing. Avoid falling which could affect the success of the surgery. Mild soreness may occur—use ice and prescribed medication as needed. Keep the incision site clean and dry for 72 hours. Support recovery with a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet, proper hydration, and rest.
This procedure has a slightly higher risk of implant misplacement due to the angled approach. If misplacement occurs, it might lead to a lack of symptom relief rather than worsening pain.
If pain returns in the months after the procedure, consult your care team. Imaging may be needed for nonunion or implant misplacement, and sometimes additional techniques may be required. Following these guidelines aids in a successful recovery. If concerns arise, contact your medical team.
FAQs
How should I prepare for a posterior allograft SI joint fusion?
To prepare for the surgery, follow an anti-inflammatory diet and consider nutritional supplements to support healing. Abstain from eating for 8 hours before the surgery, though clear liquids are permitted up to 2 hours prior. If you take blood thinners, it’s vital to follow your doctor’s instructions on when to stop them. Clean the incision area with a pre-surgical wash such as Hibiclens® to lower the infection risk, wear loose clothing, and arrange for someone to drive you home post-procedure.
What are potential risks associated with the posterior allograft SI joint fusion procedure?
The procedure carries a slightly elevated risk of implant misplacement due to its angled approach. If misplacement occurs, it typically results in a lack of symptom relief rather than an increase in pain. In such cases, consult your medical team for further evaluation and potential corrective actions.
What is posterior allograft SI joint fusion and how does it help with SI joint dysfunction?
Posterior allograft SI joint fusion is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at stabilizing the sacroiliac joint for patients with SI joint dysfunction. During the procedure, a biologic allograft, or donor bone tissue, is placed into the SI joint through a small incision in the lower back. This promotes natural bone growth to help the joint fuse, ultimately reducing pain and restoring stability.
What post-operative care is required after the SI joint fusion surgery?
After the surgery, avoid bending, twisting, and lifting anything over 10 pounds for at least six weeks to facilitate proper healing. Keep the incision site clean and dry for the first 72 hours. You may experience mild soreness, which can be managed with ice and prescribed medication. A nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet, proper hydration, and ample rest will further aid recovery.
When should I contact my doctor following SI joint fusion surgery?
If the pain resurfaces in the months after the surgery, it is important to contact your care team. Additional imaging might be necessary to check for nonunion or implant misplacement. Your doctor will determine if any additional techniques or interventions are required to address these issues. Always stay connected with your medical team if you have concerns during recovery.