Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Procedure in Dripping Springs, TX

Q: Why does SI joint pain sometimes worsen over time?

Without treatment, SI joint dysfunction can lead to increased pain due to ongoing inflammation, joint instability, or compensatory stress on surrounding muscles. Early evaluation is important to prevent symptoms from interfering significantly with daily activities.

Q: How Long Is Recovery Time?

Recovery timelines vary. While light activity can often be resumed quickly, the full fusion process typically takes several months and requires close follow-up with your provider.

What Is a Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Procedure and How Does It Work?

A sacroiliac joint fusion procedure is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic sacroiliac joint pain caused by sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The sacroiliac joint, often referred to as the SI joint, connects the sacrum and ilium, linking the spine to the pelvis. Because the body has two SI joints, dysfunction in one or both can lead to significant pain and reduced stability.

During sacroiliac joint fusion, a small incision is made and titanium implants are carefully placed across the joint. These implants help stabilize the joint and encourage joint fusion between the two bones, limiting excessive movement that contributes to inflammation and pain. By stabilizing the affected area, many patients experience meaningful pain relief and improved quality of life.

Does Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Treat SI Joint Pain?

Yes. SI joint fusion is a treatment option for patients experiencing chronic low back pain, pelvic pain, or pain that radiates into the hips, buttocks, groin, or legs. Sacroiliac joint pain may develop due to injury, arthritis, degenerative sacroiliitis, pregnancy-related changes, or joint instability.

Most patients begin with non-surgical treatment options, such as physical therapy, medications, SI joint injections, steroid injections, nerve blocks, or radiofrequency ablation. When these conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief and pain becomes persistent or increases over time, a sacroiliac joint fusion procedure in Dripping Springs may be considered as a longer-term solution.

What to Expect from the Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Procedure

The SI joint fusion procedure is typically an outpatient procedure performed at a surgery center. It usually takes about an hour and is performed using mild sedation and a local anesthetic.

Because this is a minimally-invasive approach, the procedure involves a small incision, minimal disruption to surrounding tissue, and reduced recovery demands compared to traditional surgery. Most patients are able to begin walking shortly after the procedure, with post-procedure instructions tailored to their individual treatment plan.

Risks of the SI Joint Fusion Procedure

Sacroiliac joint fusion is generally considered a low-risk procedure, but as with any surgery, potential complications exist. These may include:

Infection at the procedure site
Bleeding
Injury to the surrounding nerves or tissue
Adverse reactions to medications or anesthesia

In rare cases, additional intervention or revision surgery may be required. All risks, including recovery expectations and potential outcomes, are reviewed in detail during your thorough evaluation with your pain management provider.

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Our Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Process

Schedule An Appointment

Call our pain center or complete our online form to schedule your evaluation at our Dripping Springs location.

Initial Evaluation

During your visit, our specialists review your medical history, symptoms, imaging, and previous treatments to determine whether sacroiliac joint fusion is appropriate for your condition.

SI Joint Fusion Procedure

The procedure is performed using minimally invasive techniques and typically takes about an hour, using local numbing medication and light sedation.

Recovery

Most patients are able to walk shortly after the procedure. Recovery time varies, but the fusion process generally takes several months as the joint stabilizes. Follow-up visits help guide activity levels and long-term outcomes.

Testimonials

"Dr. Jarzembeck is AMAZING. I HIGHLY recommend her for anyone suffering in pain. She goes above and beyond to make sure her patients pain has been dealt with."

Genia G.

"Everyone is so friendly and helpful, Dr. Bednar came to me and explained the procedure and answered my questions. Highly recommend!"

Maggie G.

"Dr. Julia is the best! The staff is professional and friendly to all. Best of all, Dr. Julia is finding solutions for my chronic pain! Never thought that it would be possible. It's a journey for me, but it seems like there is a solution."

Nancy M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can sacroiliac SI joint dysfunction cause acute or radiating pain?

Yes. Sacroiliac SI joint dysfunction can cause acute pain as well as radiating pain that travels through the lower back, buttocks, hips, groin, or legs. In some cases, patients may also experience discomfort that affects posture and movement patterns throughout the upper body, as the spine and pelvis work together to maintain balance and stability.

Why does SI joint pain sometimes worsen over time?

Without proper treatment, SI joint dysfunction may lead to increased pain due to ongoing inflammation, joint instability, or compensatory stress on surrounding muscles and joints. As symptoms progress, pain may interfere more significantly with daily activities, making early evaluation and a personalized treatment plan important for long-term relief.

Is the SI Joint Fusion Procedure Covered by Insurance?

Sacroiliac joint fusion may be covered by Medicare and certain Medicare replacement plans. Coverage varies by provider and plan.

How Long Do the Benefits of SI Joint Fusion Last?

Clinical studies show long-term improvement in pain and function for many patients, with benefits lasting several years after the procedure.

How Long Is Recovery Time?

Recovery timelines vary. While patients often resume light activity quickly, the full fusion process may take several months, with close follow-up from your provider.

(512) 298-1645

Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Procedure in Dripping Springs, TX

Vendor: SurGenTec & Spinal Simplicity

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What Is a Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Procedure and How Does It Work?

Does Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Treat SI Joint Pain?

What to Expect from the Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Procedure

Risks of the SI Joint Fusion Procedure