Procedure · SI joint
SI Joint Fusion
Stabilizes the sacroiliac joint for selected patients with persistent pain from a well-supported SI joint diagnosis.
What it is
SI joint fusion stabilizes the sacroiliac joint — where the sacrum meets the pelvis at the base of the spine. Implants are placed across the joint to limit painful motion and allow it to fuse, typically through a small incision over the buttock.
The operation is smaller in scope than lumbar fusion, but its success depends entirely on the diagnosis: the joint must be the true pain source.
When it may be considered
Fusion may be considered only for selected patients with persistent, disabling pain from a well-supported SI joint dysfunction diagnosis. Because SI joint symptoms can overlap with the lumbar spine and hip, diagnostic confidence is especially important — built from the pain pattern, examination maneuvers, imaging, and sometimes a diagnostic injection that temporarily relieves the pain.
What to discuss at consultation
- Goals: confirm the SI joint is the pain generator and define realistic relief.
- Alternatives: physical therapy, injections, and continued nonoperative care — the standard first course.
- Recovery: protected activity while the joint fuses, with progressive return to normal demands.
- Risks: incomplete relief if the pain source was misidentified, adjacent discomfort, and the individual risks of surgery.
Initial consultation or second opinion?
Bring your imaging and your questions. Dr. Choi will review your diagnosis, walk through your options, and tell you plainly whether surgery is the right next step — and if not, what is.