Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Surgery

Overview

The sacroiliac joint plays a crucial role in supporting body weight and providing stability to the spine and pelvis. Dysfunction or instability in this joint can lead to persistent pain in the lower back, buttocks, and sometimes even the legs. Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Surgery aims to stabilize this joint, reduce pain, and improve mobility by fusing the joint with implants or grafts.

Symptoms

Patients with SI joint dysfunction often experience the following symptoms:

• Persistent pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, or groin
• Pain that worsens when sitting, standing for long periods, or transitioning between sitting and standing
• Difficulty with activities that require bending, twisting, or lifting
• Pain that radiates down the leg, mimicking sciatica
• Stiffness or limited range of motion in the hips or lower back

Causes

SI joint dysfunction can arise from various causes, including:

• Trauma or injury: Falls, accidents, or sports injuries can damage the SI joint.
• Arthritis: Degenerative changes due to osteoarthritis or inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis.
• Pregnancy and childbirth: Hormonal changes and stretching of the pelvis can lead to SI joint instability.
• Repetitive stress: High-impact activities or prolonged sitting can put stress on the SI joint.
• Previous spine surgery: Patients with previous lumbar fusions may experience increased stress on the SI joint.

When to See a Consultant

It is advisable to consult a spine specialist if you experience:

• Persistent lower back or hip pain that does not improve with rest or conservative treatments.
• Pain that affects daily activities, such as walking, sitting, or climbing stairs.
• Limited mobility or difficulty performing everyday tasks.
• Pain that radiates to the legs, often misdiagnosed as sciatica.

Consulting an experienced spine surgeon like Mr. Irfan Malik can help you determine if SI joint dysfunction is the source of your pain and if surgery may be an appropriate option.