Dr. Kobe said SIJ fusion is useful for ASCs trying to build a spine line. “Minimally invasive solutions will become a significant part of a surgery practice,” he said. Studies have shown that up to 25 percent of all low back pain has its origin in the sacroiliac joint.
“Start looking for these patients,” Dr. Kobe said. They used to be referred for pain management because there was little surgery could do for them. Dr. Kobe uses SImmetry fusion rods from Zyga Technologies. “The 12.5 mm screw is fairly rigid so you’ll get immediate stabilization, which does control the pain,” he said.
Most patients can go home by the end of the day, but it helps to have an ASC with 24-hour or 72-hour stay for patients who may need to stay longer. At ASCs that have no overnight capability, surgeons need identify healthier patients who can meet that schedule.
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