Review of current evidence for minimally invasive posterior sacroiliac joint fusion

Abstract

The sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is a large, irregularly shaped, serpentine joint structure bordered anteriorly and posteriorly by the sacroiliac ligaments. With increased recognition of the SIJ as a pain source, treatments have been historically nonsurgical in nature. Common treatments include bracing, medications, activity modification, manual therapy, chiropractic manipulation, physical therapy, and intra-articular SIJ injections. Surgical stabilization and/or fusion of the SIJ may be considered when a patient has persistent moderate to severe pain, functional impairment, and failed conservative management. Surgical stabilization and fusion has traditionally been by way of the transiliac approach. More recent SIJ fusion systems have proposed not only a posterior approach but one that stabilizes the joint space by placing an allograft within the SIJ. Anatomically, a posterior approach is able to avoid neurovascular structures that otherwise are encountered with the transiliac approach and may be performed percutaneously. Preliminary evidence reports consistent pain reduction with minimal complications. This paper is purposed to detail the present evidence of minimally invasive posterior SIJ fusion, as well as highlight the need for further research moving forward.