SACROILIAC (SI) JOINT BLOCK The sacroiliac joint is one of the few joints in the body that does not move, This Joint connects the spine to the pelvis/hip areas, and can be damaged by trauma, pressure, wear and tear, or any of the many other factors. Sometimes pain originating at the SI joint involves the low back, pelvic area (hips), buttocks, and thighs. In some cases, the pain may be described to be sciatic-like. The incidence of pelvic pain may make a proper diagnosis elusive.
The procedure is performed in the prone (face down) position. After the sacroiliac joint is visualized under live X-ray, the skin over that area will be numbed by local anesthetics, and another needle will be directed into the joint space. After confirmation of the position of the needle using contrast solution, a combination of local anesthetics and steroids will be injected into the joint. The procedure will take 20-30 minutes. After the completion of the procedure, Band-Aids will be placed at the injection sites, and a nurse will monitor the blood pressure and pulse and will review the discharge instructions with the patient before going home.
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