Sacroiliac Joint Injection

What is it?

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​This procedure can be either a diagnostic test or a treatment for pain.  It involves an injection of local anaesthetic +/-steroid (strong anti-inflammatory) in to the sacroiliac joint under sedation.  The medication can reduce swelling and inflammation of the joint, much in the same way that steroid injections in to the knee and shoulder work. 

What happens on the day?

This is a quick day case procedure performed under sedation or local anaesthetic.  We therefore ask patients to refrain from eating or drinking anything for 6 hours prior to the injection.  Water however is allowed up to 2 hours before admission.  We also ask that someone brings the patient home.

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Patients lie on their front and a cannula inserted in to their hand to facilitate the sedation if required.  The injection is administered under x-ray guidance. Patients usually leave the hospital within an hour of the injection.

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Follow up

Typically, a routine follow-up appointment is made for 6 weeks, thus giving time for the injection to work. It is helpful to keep a pain diary during this period.  If there are any signs of discharge, redness or swelling at the injection site or any adverse reaction, then medical attention should be sought.