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The physicians and staff of St. Paul Radiology are committed to providing quality care to all patients. This website provides useful information about the procedures and services provided as well as directions to locations. 
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Overview
Sacroiliac Joint Steroid Injection
 A sacroiliac joint injection is performed to relieve pain caused by inflammation in the sacroiliac joint where the spine and hip bone meet. The steroid medication can reduce the swelling and inflammation.
Diagnostic function: By placing local anesthetic within the joint, the amount of immediate pain relief experienced will help confirm or deny the joint as a source of pain. If complete pain relief is achieved while the joint is anesthetized, it means this location is likely to be the source of pain.
Pain relief function: Along with the local anesthetic, time-release steroid is also injected around within the joint to reduce inflammation, which can often provide long term pain relief.
Procedure Description:
In this procedure, the patient lays face down. A fluoroscope (type of X-ray) assists the radiologist in locating the sacroiliac joint. A local anesthetic numbs the skin and all tissues to the surface of the sacroiliac joint.
The radiologist advances the needle through the anesthetized tissue and into the sacroiliac joint.
A combination of an anti-inflammatory steroidal medication and a numbing anesthetic mix is injected into sacroiliac joint.
The needle is removed and a small band-aid is used to cover the injection site.
The patient is then monitored for 15-30 minutes before being discharged.
Preparation:
Patient will need a driver - due to the effects of certain medications, the patient\'s driving reflexes may be impaired.
Please bring prior imaging such as MRI, CT, and/or X-rays results to your appointment, if available.
Discontinue use of blood thinners (coumadin, plavix, heparin) for a minimum of 72 hours in advance.
No food 3 hours prior to exam, but may consume clear liquids till injection.
Symptoms must be present for this procedure to be effective. If the patient is not experiencing symptoms prior to the procedure, he/she should cancel the appointment and reschedule the exam once the symptoms have returned.
Duration of Relief:
The desired effects of the steroidal medication usually occur within 48-72 hours, but may take as long as 1 week. Occasionally, it may take more than 1 injection to obtain full pain relief. If there is no change in the patients symptoms after 2 injections, investigation into other potential sources for the pain may be beneficial.
Post-Procedural Instructions:
The patient may resume normal activity and continue to take all prescribed medications immediately following the procedure.
Should bruising and/or tenderness occur at the injection site, apply ice. If any increased redness, swelling, or pain does occur, contact St. Paul Radiology or your physician. Expect initial tenderness immediately after the procedure.
Please discontinue any alternative therapies (physical, chiropractic) for 1 week after your injection.
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