Dr. Charla Fischer, a renowned orthopedic spine surgeon in NYC, offers cutting-edge minimally invasive spine procedures including robotic-assisted SI joint fusion for patients who have not found relief through conservative care.
What Is the SI Joint?
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects your sacrum — the base of your spine — to your pelvis. It plays a critical role in absorbing motion between your upper body and legs. SI joint dysfunction can develop due to prior back surgery, trauma, arthritis, or even pregnancy.
When Should You Consider SI Joint Fusion?
Most cases of SI joint pain can be treated with non-surgical options such as physical therapy, bracing, or injections. However, if your symptoms are chronic and unresponsive, surgery might be the right next step.
You may be a candidate for SI joint fusion if:
- Low back pain is persistent and localized to one side
- Pain worsens with sitting or standing transitions
- SI joint injections provide only temporary relief
- Imaging confirms SI joint dysfunction
How Dr. Fischer Performs Robotic SI Joint Fusion
Dr. Fischer uses advanced robotic guidance systems to plan and execute minimally invasive SI joint fusion procedures with remarkable precision and safety.
Step-by-Step Approach:
- Preoperative Planning: A 3D CT scan creates a tailored surgical plan, uploaded to the robotic platform.
- Navigation: Through a small incision (2–3 cm), the robotic system guides instruments precisely to the SI joint.
- Stabilization: Titanium implants are placed across the joint to promote long-term fusion and reduce motion-related pain.
- Same-Day Recovery: This minimally invasive approach allows many patients to return home the same day.
Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery
The robotic-assisted technique offers:
- Greater precision and safety
- Minimized tissue disruption
- Smaller incisions and faster healing
- Lower risk of complications
- Consistent surgical outcomes
Learn more about how Dr. Fischer uses robotic-assisted spine surgery to improve patient outcomes.
Recovery After SI Joint Fusion
Most patients begin walking the same day or the next morning. Light activity usually resumes in 1–2 weeks, with a return to normal function in 6–8 weeks. As the joint fuses, pain gradually decreases.
For recovery tips, check out 20 easy things to do while recovering and recovery optimization tips from Dr. Fischer.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’ve been struggling with SI joint-related pain and haven’t found relief with conservative treatments, robotic-assisted SI joint fusion could be the key to reclaiming your life.
Call: (646) 501-7200
Location: 333 East 38th Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10016
Contact Dr. Fischer or learn what to expect at your first visit.