About
Sacroiliac fusion is a surgical procedure which involves fusing of the iliac bones and sacrum for stabilization.
Indication
Your doctor may recommend sacroiliac fusion surgery if you are experiencing severe sacroiliac joint dysfunction due to arthritis, injury due to accidents or falls, being overweight, uneven leg lengths, gout, and spondylitis.
Pre-Surgical Care
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is diagnosed with X-ray, CT-scan, and MRI. The medical history details are collected, and you will have to undergo specific clinical examinations before surgery.
Surgical Procedures
The surgical procedure involves fusing of the painful sacroiliac joint. The articular cartilage is scraped from the ends of both bones. The two bones are held together with the help of screws and plates until they fuse (grow together into one bone). This stops the movement between the bones and hence annihilates the joint pain.
Post-Surgical Care
It might take six months for you to recover completely. You can start the rehabilitation program after 6-8 weeks of surgery. Your doctor may use heat/ice packs, massage, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound to decrease the muscle spasms and provide pain relief. Physical therapists will guide you through safe exercises, and you will be able to resume your daily activities gradually.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, risks and complications can occur. These may include:
- Swelling.
- Infection.
- Nerve damage.
- Scarring.
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