by The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the sacrum to the ilium bones of the pelvis on either side of the lower back. It plays a vital role in enabling mobility and transferring loads between the lower back and legs. However, degeneration or injuries to the SI joint can cause chronic lower back pain. Sacroiliac joint fusion (SIJF) has emerged as a reliable surgical procedure to treat such pain by fusing the joint. This article explores the global rise of SIJF and how it is helping millions overcome lower back issues.
Anatomy and Role of the Sacroiliac Joint
The Sacroiliac Joints is a synovial joint that is located at the base of the spine in the pelvis. On each side, the concave surface of the ilium bone articulates with the convex lateral surface of the sacrum. This joint allows for slight mobility in the pelvis required during walking, running and other activities. It also transmits load from the spine to the hips and legs during various movements and activities. Any dysfunction or injury to the SI joint disrupts its ability to absorb impacts and transfer load efficiently, leading to lower back pain.
Rise in Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
SI joint dysfunction has emerged as a leading cause of chronic lower back pain across the world. Its prevalence is estimated to be around 15-30% of all lower back pain cases. Factors such as prolonged sitting, lifting heavy weights improperly, injuries during sports and work accidents are contributing to the increased rates of SI joint degeneration and pain globally. Younger populations are also getting affected due to more sedentary lifestyles and participation in high-impact sports at an early age. This has significantly driven up the demand for effective treatment options like SIJF surgery in recent years.
How Does Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Work?
In this procedure, the affected SI joint is surgically fused or immobilized using various fixation techniques and bone graft materials. This is done to eliminate pain caused by ongoing movement or instability in the dysfunctional joint. Common approaches used are minimally invasive, open and robotic-assisted fusion. Special screws, rods or cages made of titanium and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) are used to fuse and stabilize the joint. Bone graft enhances bony fusion between the sacrum and ilium over 3-6 months. Once solid fusion occurs, it eliminates motion and pain originating from the SI joint permanently.
Global Adoption and Outcomes
Since the first documented SIJF procedure in 1908, it has evolved significantly with advancing technologies. The United States leads worldwide adoption rates due to increasing awareness amongst physicians and patients. It is now one of the most commonly performed spine surgeries in the country with over 25,000 cases annually. Results from long-term follow up studies show over 80% of patients achieve successful pain relief and high patient satisfaction rates. Other developed nations are also progressively using SIJF for recalcitrant SI joint pain with similar positive outcomes. Even developing countries are seeing improved access to this life-changing surgery in major metropolitan centers. Given its proven effectiveness, SIJF is set to become a mainstay global treatment for chronic lower back issues stemming from the sacroiliac joint in the future.
Latest Advancements in Techniques and Implants
Continuous advancements aim to enhance fusion success rates, reduce surgery times and recovery. Minimally invasive transarticular and lateral fusion techniques use specialized instruments to accurately target the joint through small incisions. Robotic-guidance systems help achieve precise screw placement. Biologics containing bone growth factors are added to grafts to boost osteoinduction and osteogenesis. Resorbable fixation devices made of polylactide eliminate need for implant removal post-fusion. 3D printed, patient-specific cages and implants provide an anatomic fit for arthrodesis. Advances have made SIJF safer, less morbid and more effective with each passing year. Upcoming frontiers include image-guided navigation for complex cases and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring for nerve protection.
Overall, As rates of SI joint dysfunction rise globally, sacroiliac joint fusion (SIJF) surgery has emerged as a revolutionary treatment restoring mobility and improving quality of life for millions of lower back pain sufferers worldwide. Continuous advancements are further enhancing safety, outcomes and access to this life-changing procedure across both developed and developing regions. SIJF offers durable pain relief, high satisfaction and is fast becoming the gold standard management for recalcitrant sacroiliac joint issues. Its adoption will likely increase multifold in the future with growing awareness and implementation of the latest minimally invasive techniques.
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- Source: CoherentMI, Public sources, Desk research
- We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
