Our Summary

This research paper discusses a surgical technique that might help reduce pain and joint disease in a specific area of the lower back. The sacroiliac joint (SIJ), where the spine meets the pelvis, can cause pain and disease after certain types of back surgery. The researchers noticed that many patients developed problems with this joint after undergoing a specific type of back surgery involving long-construct lumbosacral fusion and sacropelvic fixation. However, they found that when they fused the SIJ at the same time as performing the back surgery, patients seemed to have less pain and fewer problems with the joint afterwards. The authors suggest that this technique might help to reduce the occurrence of SIJ disease and pain in patients needing revision surgeries. They call for more large-scale studies to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What is the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) and how is it related to back pain and disease?
  2. What is the surgical technique proposed in the research to reduce pain and joint disease in the lower back?
  3. Are there more large-scale studies planned to confirm the effectiveness of joint fusion in reducing SIJ disease and pain?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient that joint fusion is a surgical procedure that involves joining two bones together to eliminate movement between them, which can help reduce pain and improve stability in the affected joint. It is important for patients to follow post-operative care instructions and attend physical therapy sessions to ensure a successful recovery. Additionally, patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to support the healing process and prevent future joint issues.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended joint fusion include those who have chronic pain and joint disease in the area of the lower back, specifically in the sacroiliac joint (SIJ). This may include patients who have undergone certain types of back surgery, such as long-construct lumbosacral fusion and sacropelvic fixation, and subsequently developed problems with the SIJ. Patients who have not found relief from conservative treatments for SIJ pain and dysfunction may also be recommended for joint fusion surgery. Additionally, patients who are in need of revision surgeries for SIJ disease and pain may be candidates for joint fusion. Ultimately, the decision to recommend joint fusion will depend on the specific circumstances and needs of each individual patient.

Timeline

  • Before joint fusion:
  1. Patient experiences chronic pain and limited mobility in the affected joint.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, and physical examinations to determine the extent of joint damage.
  3. Patient may undergo conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and injections to manage pain and improve function.
  4. If conservative treatments are unsuccessful, patient may be recommended for joint fusion surgery.
  • After joint fusion:
  1. Patient undergoes joint fusion surgery, where the damaged joint is fused together to reduce pain and improve stability.
  2. Patient goes through a period of recovery and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the affected joint.
  3. Over time, patient experiences reduced pain and improved function in the joint as it heals and fuses together.
  4. Patient may still need to follow up with physical therapy and other treatments to maintain joint health and prevent future complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is joint fusion and how does it work?
  2. How do I know if joint fusion is the right treatment option for me?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with joint fusion?
  4. What is the success rate of joint fusion in reducing pain and improving joint function?
  5. How long is the recovery time after joint fusion surgery?
  6. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments to joint fusion that I should consider?
  8. What are the long-term implications of joint fusion on my joint health?
  9. Will I need to undergo any additional surgeries or treatments in the future after joint fusion?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after joint fusion surgery to ensure the best outcome?

Reference

Authors: Noureldine MHA, Freeman TB, Alikhani P. Journal: World Neurosurg. 2020 Jul;139:434-439. doi: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.04.188. Epub 2020 May 4. PMID: 32380335