Sacroiliac joint fusion

Abstract

Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pathology can be a potential source of low back pain. However, diagnosis of pain coming from the SIJ could not be easily distinguished from pain coming from other sources (such as the spine or hip joint) based on history or imaging alone. No single physical examination test has been shown to be pathognomonic for SIJ pain. Performing a composite of tests adds to the validity of the provocative examinations. Fluoroscopic- or CT-guided injection is currently the accepted reference standard for confirming the diagnosis of SIJ pain. If physical findings and diagnostic injections are consistent with SIJ pathology, nonoperative treatment regimen should be initiated. Surgery can be considered if conservative treatment has failed. Minimally invasive techniques of sacroiliac joint fusion have been predominantly used recently. Multiple prospective studies have demonstrated favorable and durable outcomes of minimally invasive SIJ fusion.