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Dr. Praveen Mambalam has been recognized as one of Seattle Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pain Medicine for August & September 2025. Dr. Praveen Mambalam has been recognized as one of Seattle Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pain Medicine for August & September 2025. Dr. Praveen Mambalam has been recognized as one of Seattle Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pain Medicine for August & September 2025. Dr. Praveen Mambalam has been recognized as one of Seattle Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pain Medicine for August & September 2025.
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SI Joint Fusion in Washington

Chronic pain from your lower back to your hips might be more than a simple strain, it could be SI joint dysfunction. At WaPASS, we offer advanced SI Joint Fusion surgery to bring long-term relief and restore your mobility.

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What Is the SI Joint and Why Does It Matter

What Is the SI Joint and Why Does It Matter?

The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum (the bottom part of the spine) to the iliac bones (part of the pelvis). It plays a critical role in transferring forces between the upper body and legs. When this joint becomes dysfunctional, either through wear and tear (degeneration) or trauma, it can lead to pain in the lower back, buttocks, pelvis, or even down the leg.

SI joint dysfunction is often misdiagnosed as a herniated disc, hip issue, or sciatica, which can delay proper treatment.

When Is SI Joint Fusion Needed?

If you’re struggling with chronic lower back or pelvic pain that hasn’t improved with non-surgical treatments, you may be experiencing sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction. In such cases, SI joint fusion may be considered to help restore stability and relieve ongoing pain.

SI Joint Fusion may be recommended if:

  • Conservative treatments (e.g. physical therapy, injections, NSAIDs, SI belts) have failed
  • SI joint dysfunction is confirmed through clinical exam, imaging, and diagnostic joint injections
  • Pain remains chronic, severe, and limits daily life
When Is SI Joint Fusion Needed
How We Diagnose SI Joint Pain at WaPASS

How We Diagnose SI Joint Pain at WaPASS

Accurately identifying the source of lower back or pelvic pain is crucial before recommending any surgical intervention like SI joint fusion. his multi-step evaluation helps eliminate other potential causes such as spinal or hip disorders, ensuring a precise and confident diagnosis.

Our diagnostic process includes:

  • Physical examination: Specialized provocative tests are performed to reproduce your pain and isolate the SI joint as the source.
  • Imaging: Diagnostic tools like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs help rule out other conditions affecting the spine or hips.

Diagnostic injection: A local anesthetic is injected directly into the SI joint under imaging guidance.

  • If your pain reduces by 75% or more, we confirm the SI joint as the pain source

This multi-step approach ensures an accurate diagnosis before recommending any minimally invasive treatment.

Minimally Invasive SI Joint Fusion with iFuse TORQ®

If your symptoms are confirmed and persistent, we may recommend a minimally invasive fusion procedure using the innovative iFuse TORQ® system. The iFuse TORQ® Implant System is a 3D-printed, threaded titanium implant designed to fuse and stabilize the SI joint.

Key Benefits:

  • Outpatient procedure (~1 hour)
  • Performed through a ~1-inch incision
  • Implants designed for osseointegration—bone grows into the implant
  • Durable pain relief and improved function
  • Proven long-term outcomes backed by 100+ clinical studies⁷–¹²

During the procedure:

  • 2–3 implants are placed across the SI joint
  • Guided by fluoroscopy for precise placement
  • Bone grows along and into the implant over time, permanently stabilizing the joint

If these conservative treatments fail, and pain continues to interfere with your life, we may recommend SI joint fusion using the iFuse TORQ® system.

Why iFuse Stands Out

  • Over 100+ published studies support its effectiveness.
  • Backed by randomized controlled trials showing significant improvement in pain, function, and quality of life.
  • The implants are 3D-printed, porous, and designed for optimal bone integration.
  • Covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare.

Is iFuse Right for You?

If you’ve been living with persistent lower back, hip, or pelvic pain that hasn’t improved with conservative care, it’s worth discussing SI joint dysfunction with your healthcare provider. The iFuse Implant System offers a clinically proven, long-term solution for patients who are candidates for surgical treatment.

Is iFuse Right for You

Take the First Step Toward a Pain-Free Life

If you’re tired of temporary fixes and want to address the root cause of your lower back pain, we can help. Let our Washington-based specialists at WaPASS evaluate your symptoms and guide you toward the right treatment—whether conservative or surgical.

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Struggling with persistent pain that medications can't fix

What Sets WaPASS Apart for SI Joint Fusion in Washington

  • Experienced Surgeons

    Our SI joint fusion specialists have years of hands-on experience and advanced training, ensuring you receive safe, precise, and effective care tailored to your individual spinal health needs.

  • Accurate Diagnosis

    We use advanced imaging and diagnostic injections to pinpoint SI joint dysfunction with high precision, helping avoid misdiagnosis and ensuring the right treatment plan from the beginning.

  • Minimally Invasive Surgery

    Our procedures involve small incisions, leading to less tissue damage, quicker recovery, reduced pain, and minimal scarring so you can return to daily life faster.

  • State-of-the-Art Technology

    We use the iFuse TORQ® system—an FDA-approved implant that promotes bone growth and provides long-term stability—offering safe, consistent outcomes.

  • Evidence-Based Results

    WaPASS focuses on procedures backed by clinical research and proven outcomes, delivering reliable, long-term relief for SI joint pain.

  • Compassionate, Personalized Care

    From your first visit to post-surgical care, our team supports you with empathy and dedication—customizing treatment for your comfort, lifestyle, and health goals.

Why choose us for Medial Branch Block Injections

Frequently Asked Question

If you experience chronic lower back pain, especially near the hips or buttocks, and diagnostic injections confirm SI joint dysfunction, you may be a candidate for fusion.

The procedure is minimally invasive, so discomfort is minimal compared to open surgery. Most patients report pain relief within a few weeks and manageable post-op discomfort.

Yes. The iFuse TORQ® system is FDA-cleared and has a strong track record of promoting bone growth and improving joint stability.

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