Sacroiliac Joint Fusion (Rialto™ SI Fusion System)

Sacroiliac Joint Fusion with the Rialto™ SI Fusion System is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve pain caused by sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction or degeneration. Using small titanium implants, the procedure stabilizes and fuses the joint that connects the spine (sacrum) to the pelvis (ilium). By restoring joint stability, it can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life for patients who have not found relief through conservative treatments.

Quick facts

  • Setting: Outpatient or short inpatient stay
  • Time: ~60–90 minutes
  • Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia
  • Recovery: Home same day or next day; gradual activity increase over weeks
  • Duration of relief: Long-term; fusion creates permanent stabilization

Who it helps

  • Chronic lower back or buttock pain caused by SI joint dysfunction
  • Degenerative changes or arthritis in the SI joint
  • SI joint instability following trauma or previous lumbar surgery
  • Pain that worsens with standing, sitting, or transitional movements
  • Limited response to injections, physical therapy, or bracing

How it works

The sacroiliac joint connects the spine to the pelvis and helps transfer weight between the upper body and legs. When the joint becomes damaged or unstable, it can cause persistent pain in the lower back, buttocks, or hips. During the Rialto™ SI Fusion procedure, your surgeon uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to insert titanium implants across the SI joint through a small incision. These implants stabilize the joint, allowing new bone to grow around and through them over time—creating a solid fusion and reducing painful movement.

What to expect

  • Before: You’ll review your medical history and imaging to confirm that the SI joint is the source of pain. You’ll receive anesthesia and be positioned face down for the procedure.
  • During: The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts a guide pin across the SI joint using X-ray guidance. A channel is drilled along the pin, and one to three Rialto™ implants are carefully placed to secure the ilium and sacrum together.
  • After: You’ll be monitored briefly and may go home the same day or stay overnight. Your provider will give post-procedure care instructions, including gradual return to activity and physical therapy.

Benefits & risks

Benefits:

  • Stabilizes and fuses the SI joint for long-term pain relief
  • Minimally invasive with small incision and limited tissue disruption
  • Rapid recovery and early return to activity
  • Titanium implants support bone growth and durable fusion

Risks:

  • Infection or bleeding (rare)
  • Nerve irritation or leg numbness (temporary)
  • Incomplete fusion or continued pain (uncommon)
  • Need for revision surgery (rare)

Is it right for me? (Checklist)

  • ✅ Chronic low back, hip, or buttock pain from SI joint dysfunction
  • ✅ Pain that worsens with sitting, standing, or climbing stairs
  • ✅ Positive response to SI joint diagnostic injections
  • ✅ Failed conservative care such as therapy, medications, or bracing

Alternatives at PCET

FAQs

  • How long is recovery? Most patients return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities in 6–8 weeks.
  • When will I feel pain relief? Many patients experience improvement within weeks as the joint stabilizes and heals.
  • Will the implants stay in permanently? Yes—titanium implants remain in place to maintain long-term joint fusion.
  • Is this procedure covered by insurance? Most major insurance plans, including Medicare, cover SI joint fusion when criteria are met.
  • Can I still have other spinal procedures later? Yes—this procedure does not prevent future spinal treatments if needed.

📞 Call to Schedule

If you suffer from chronic low back or hip pain due to SI joint dysfunction, Sacroiliac Joint Fusion with the Rialto™ SI Fusion System may offer lasting relief. Call us at 865-934-2567 to schedule your appointment today.