As a leading expert in both surgical brain and spine procedures and non-invasive or knifeless brain and spine radiosurgery, Dr. John D. Lipani offers his patients a variety of treatment options that best fits their individual needs. Dr. Lipani also offers minimally invasive spinal surgery that he frequently uses to treat sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Dr. Lipani's patients receive unparalleled, personalized attention with the understanding and knowledge to help his patients regain their quality of life.
The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the base of the spine to the ilium of the pelvis or hip bone. As with most other joints in the body, the sacroiliac joints have a cartilage layer covering the bone. This cartilage allows for some movement and acts as a shock absorber between the bones. If this cartilage becomes damaged or worn away, the bones begin to rub on each other, causing degenerative changes to occur. This is the most common cause of sacroiliac joint dysfunction. There are many disorders that affect the joints of the body that can also cause inflammation in the SI joints. These include gout, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
The most common sacroiliac joint dysfunction symptoms are pain in the lower back or in the back of the hips. Sacroiliac joint pain may also be present in the groin and thighs. For most patients, the pain will gradually become worse when running or standing for long periods of time. In more severe cases, lying down can cause pain due to direct joint pressure.
A physical examination will enable the doctor to evaluate the patient's medical history and properly diagnose the condition. Dr. Lipani will determine if there are any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the patient's sacroiliac joint pain and determine whether the pain originates in the sacroiliac joints, lumbar spine or hips. X-rays, a CT scan or an MRI may also be ordered, which will help provide a detailed image of the patient's SI joints and surrounding anatomy.
A sacroiliac joint steroid injection may also be performed to help diagnose this condition and may also provide temporary or long-term relief. Oral anti-inflammatory medications, oral steroids and pelvic belts are other pain relief methods used to treat sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
When non-surgical methods do not alleviate the patient's condition, surgery may be a solution. This procedure involves a fusion of the sacroiliac joints and is usually a minimally invasive procedure to expedite recovery. The minimally invasive procedure is performed through a small incision in the low back and generally takes about an hour to complete. Because the procedure is performed through a small incision, patients should experience a quicker healing time, less irritation and should be discharged on the same day of surgery.
For more information about sacroiliac joint dysfunction treatment, contact the office of Dr. John D. Lipani at (609)-890-3400 today!
