For Patients
Traditional "Open" Surgery for SI Joint Fusion
When is traditional “open” surgery the best option for SI joint pain relief? What's the difference between open SI joint surgery and minimally invasive surgery (MIS)?
Open Surgery
Traditional sacroiliac joint fusion involves open surgery that may take up to a few hours. Open surgery includes a surgical incision to access the joint, removal of cartilaginous material from the joint, and use of bone grafts and screws to help fuse the joint. Patients typically require a several-day hospital stay.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) or SI joint fusion requires a smaller surgical incision, less time in surgery (about an hour), which typically means less time at the hospital, and potentially a faster healing process. SI-BONE makes the only clinically proven minimally invasive solution for SI joint fusion, called iFuse, available since 2009. The procedure typically involves inserting three small triangle-shaped implants across the SI joint to fuse and stabilize it.
Potential Benefits of iFuse versus Traditional SI Joint Fusion
- Smaller incision size
- Reduced blood loss
- No need for bone grafting
- Less soft tissue stripping
- Minimal tendon irritation
- Less time in the operating room
Treatment Options
Not sure which is the right SI joint treatment option for you? Talk to your doctor or find a trained SI joint doctor to understand the best options for your situation.
Treatments
Questions & Answers
These “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQs) were created to answer some of the most common questions about the sacroiliac joint, the iFuse Implant System, and the insurance reimbursement for the procedure.
- Is SI Joint Dysfunction Common?
- How Do I Know that My SI Joint Is Not Functioning Properly?
- How Can My Doctor Tell Whether I Have SI Joint Dysfunction?