Overview
Sacroiliac joint is formed from the connection of sacrum with the pelvis on either side. Sources of pain or inflammation can result from degenerative joint changes, decreased or increased range of motion, injury, dysfunction of surrounding soft tissue structures. This can cause pain on either side of buttocks just below the lumbar spine.
Sacroiliac Joint injection
Under Fluoroscopic guidance, Injection of steroid and local anesthetic into the joint space to aide in decreasing the inflammation, relieve pain, and improve functioning.
Lateral Branch Blocks
The lateral branch nerves are small nerves that branch off the sacral spinal nerves and provide sensation to the sacroiliac joint. These nerves can be blocked by the injection of local anesthetic with or without steroid under X-Ray guidance. If beneficial, radiofrequency ablation of the nerves can be performed to provide longer lasting relief.
Lateral Branch Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
In cases where either the sacroiliac joint injection or the lateral branch blocks provided good relief but did not last long enough, radiofrequency ablation may be performed to provide longer lasting relief. RFA targets the nerves by using heat energy to stun the nerves. RFA can provide relief for up to 6-12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Sacroiliac Joint(SIJ) procedures take?
SIJ procedures can take 10 to 15 minutes. Radio frequency ablation usually takes roughly 30 minutes.
Is Radio Frequency Ablation permanent?
Radio frequency ablation does not permanently destroy (or “burn”) the lateral branch nerves. The nerves will slowly regenerate/grow back over time, which is why this procedure may need to be repeated.
How will I feel afterwards?
The majority of patients feel relief of their usual pain shortly after the procedure due to the injection of local anesthetic. However, some patients will experience temporary muscle stiffness.
How long will the relief last?
Relief from injections is highly variable and can range from weeks to a month or two. Relief from RFA is more predictable and typically lasts up to 12 months.