Rialto™ SI Joint Fusion System
The Rialto™ SI Fusion System is a minimally invasive, advanced surgical technology used to stabilize the sacroiliac joint and promote fusion (the joining of the SI joint to create one solid structure). Surgery is used to help limit the movement in the SI joint and stabilize the area. UVNN specializes in minimally invasive surgical fusion techniques using the Rialto™ SI Fusion System.
The system uses cylindrical threaded devices designed to accommodate the patient’s unique anatomy and allows your surgeon to place titanium implants that will join your hip’s ilium bone to the spine’s sacrum. This technique is used to decrease pain and other symptoms associated with SI joint dysfunction or SI joint disease. The threads are placed by the surgeon in varying locations to promote fusion of the SI joint.
The Rialto™ SI fusion system has several advantages:
- A minimally invasive approach can be used requiring a small incision.
- Less disruption to tissues during device insertion.
- The device can deliver bone graft to the area, promoting fusion.
RIALTO SI Joint Fusion Surgery Candidates
Patients may be a candidate for Rialto SI Fusion if they:
- Suffer from Degenerative Sacroiliitis
- Struggle with SI Joint disruption
- Have undergone failed non-surgical treatment (physical therapy, chiropractic, physiatry, etc.)
- Have a positive response to SI Joint injection(s)
Patients are Non-Candidates if:
- Deformities
- Tumor resection
- Infection near the operative site and/or signs of local inflammation ƒ
- A failed previous fusion ƒ
- Suspected or documented allergy or intolerance to the component materials
Posterior vs. Lateral Approach
Unlike most sacroiliac joint surgeries which use the procedure laterally (from the side of the body), UVNN performs SI joint fusion using a posterior approach. The surgeon uses the Rialto™ SI fusion system to enter the SI joint though the back side of the body.
When using a lateral approach, the patient is positioned face down and administered anesthesia to induce sleep or numb the area. The surgeon will make a small incision and place a video x-ray device commonly referred to as a fluoroscope across the SI joint. This approach minimizes contact with tissue and surrounding muscles.
The surgeon will create a channel along the pin, pass the ilium and through the SI joint sacrum. The Rialto™ implant is inserted, joining the bones together. One to three implants may be required to stabilize the joint. The implant will promote bone fusion over time, allowing new bone to grow on and around the implants and across the SI joint.
Post Operative Recovery
Once the procedure is complete, the patient will be taken to recovery where they will be monitored closely for several hours. The post surgical care team will review mobilization, and at-home incision care with the patient prior to discharge. Most people return home the same day.
Risks of SI Joint Surgery
As with any surgery, risks do exist. Unforeseeable complications can arise as a result of:
- Anesthesia
- Allergies
- Blood clots
- Non-related patient conditions like heart disease
Additionally, SI joint surgery does not guarantee total pain relief and in extreme cases patients can experience nerve damage, complications with the surgical hardware, or infection. Complications are rare and treatable. Some instances may require additional surgery.
Helpful Resources
To learn more about the Rialto SI fusion system in treating sacroiliac joint disease and SI joint fusion surgery download the patient brochure. Download and print the discussion guide to help you track your sSI joint pain and symptoms and describe these symptoms to your doctor. Share this guide with your physician to help them determine what treatment options are best for you.