The Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is formed where the pelvic bones join at the base of spine, or sacrum. This joint can be a source of pain like any other joint, and it may cause hip, low back or buttock pain. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction may also be associated with radiation of pain into the groin and/or back of the thigh.
Your physician may recommend one of the following:
Sacroiliac Joint Injection: X-ray guidance is used to insert a thin needle in to one or both SI joints and steroid and local anesthetic are carefully injected.
Alternatively, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)/Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) can be injected in some cases.
Patient is placed on a fluoroscopy table or an exam table. The site of the injection is identified using x ray machine or ultrasound machine. The skin and site of injection area are cleaned with antiseptic solution. A local anesthetic is used to numb your skin and subcutaneous tissue.
There is a prerequisite checklist that some insurance companies follow, and these can include but not limited to duration of symptoms, modalities trialed, medications trialed, imaging results (MRIs or X rays). We must document this information in an accurate and thorough manner in your office visit note, hence, the first visit with the provider is a consultation visit to start the insurance authorization and approval process.
Please bring an escort with you for precautionary measures.
Some patients get excellent relief that can last months to years, and some unfortunately get no relief whatsoever.
There are various factors at play which results in variable outcomes. These include but not limited to duration of ongoing symptoms, severity of underlying condition, anatomical variations and challenges, previous history of spinal surgery, age, and their physiologic response to steroid based medications.
Most patients require a series of injections few weeks apart based on their response to initial injection to maximize benefit and longevity.
You will be scheduled for a follow-up visit in 1-2 weeks after your injection. At this visit, you and your doctor will discuss the outcome of your previous injection and plan for the next steps based on response.