Our Summary

This study examined the effectiveness of three types of minimally invasive surgeries for lower back pain. The researchers looked at studies on lateral, posterior, and posterolateral sacroiliac joint fusion, which are techniques used to join the bones in the lower back to reduce pain. They found 48 studies that fit their criteria and combined the results.

The researchers discovered that all three types of procedures significantly reduced pain at 6 and 12 months after surgery. The overall success rate of the surgeries was also fairly similar across the three types.

However, they found that the lateral approach, one of the techniques, had a higher rate of complications and repeat surgeries compared to the other methods. This suggests that while all three procedures can help with lower back pain, the lateral approach might come with a higher risk.

FAQs

  1. What are the three types of minimally invasive surgeries for lower back pain examined in the study?
  2. What was the overall success rate of the surgeries, and how did it vary across the three types?
  3. Did any of the procedures show a higher rate of complications and repeat surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

Therefore, a doctor might advise a patient considering joint fusion surgery for lower back pain to discuss the potential risks and benefits of each approach with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision about which technique is best for them. Additionally, the doctor may recommend following post-operative instructions carefully to optimize healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for joint fusion surgeries are those who have severe lower back pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. These patients may have conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis. Joint fusion surgery is often considered when other treatment options have been exhausted and the patient’s quality of life is significantly affected by their back pain.

Timeline

  • Before joint fusion:
  1. Patient experiences chronic lower back pain that does not respond to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections.
  2. Patient undergoes a series of diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to determine the cause of their pain.
  3. Patient consults with a spine specialist who recommends joint fusion surgery as a treatment option.
  4. Patient undergoes preoperative evaluations and preparations for the surgery.
  • After joint fusion:
  1. Patient undergoes minimally invasive joint fusion surgery, which involves the placement of implants or bone grafts to fuse the affected joint.
  2. Patient experiences postoperative pain and discomfort, which is managed with medication and physical therapy.
  3. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the fused joint.
  4. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments to monitor their recovery and assess the success of the surgery.
  5. Patient experiences a significant reduction in lower back pain at 6 and 12 months after surgery, with overall improvement in function and quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about joint fusion include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the specific type of joint fusion procedure being recommended?
  2. How long is the recovery process after joint fusion surgery and what can I expect in terms of pain management?
  3. Are there alternative treatments or therapies that I can try before considering joint fusion surgery?
  4. What is the success rate of this specific type of joint fusion surgery in reducing pain and improving function?
  5. How long do the effects of joint fusion surgery typically last and are there any long-term considerations I should be aware of?
  6. What is the likelihood of needing a repeat surgery or additional procedures after undergoing joint fusion?
  7. How experienced is the surgeon in performing the specific type of joint fusion surgery being recommended?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or modifications I should make before or after joint fusion surgery to optimize the results?
  9. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after joint fusion surgery, and if so, what will that entail?
  10. What should I do if I experience any unexpected symptoms or complications after joint fusion surgery?

Reference

Authors: Xu K, Li YL, Xiao SH, Pan YW. Journal: J Int Med Res. 2025 Feb;53(2):3000605251315300. doi: 10.1177/03000605251315300. PMID: 39917851