Andrew Cash, MD, of the Minimally Invasive Spine Institute, performed his center's first minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion using the iFuse system from SI-BONE.
"Over the last 30 years, the medical community has focused on the vertebral discs, such as herniated disc or degenerative disc disease, as a generator of low back pain," said Dr. Cash. "Because of this the sacroiliac joint is often overlooked and should be included as part of a diagnosis for lower back pain."
The procedure is designed as a less invasive solution to SI joint issues. Here are five quick things to know about the procedure:
• It usually takes one hour to perform.
• The procedure includes three small titanium implants inserted through a one-inch incision.
• The procedure can be performed in an ambulatory surgery center.
• Patients typically leave the hospital the day after surgery.
• Often, patients can resume activities within six weeks, depending on how well they are healing and based on the physician's orders.
Dr. Cash has also performed the procedure at Spring Valley Hospital and Southern Hills Hospital.