SiLO Procedure

SiLO Procedure

The sacroiliac (SI) joints are where the lower spine (sacrum) connects with the pelvis (ilium). There are two SI joints—one on each side of the lower back. These joints play a key role in supporting the body’s weight while standing and moving. When they become painful or dysfunctional, it can make everyday actions like standing, sitting, or climbing stairs very difficult.

The SiLO Procedure is a new, minimally invasive treatment that offers relief for people suffering from SI joint pain.

How the SiLO SI Fusion Procedure Works

During the SiLO procedure, a surgeon places a small implant into the SI joint through a narrow tube. This can be done under general anesthesia or conscious sedation. Here’s how the procedure generally unfolds:

1. A small incision is made in the lower back.
2. A special device (joint finder) is inserted to guide the surgeon to the joint.
3. The device is tapped gently into place to reach the exact location for the implant.
4. A guide tube (called a ghost tube) is placed over the guide pin.
5. A tool called a decorticator is inserted to clean the joint area and prepare it for the bone graft.
6. The guide pin and decorticator are removed.
7. Using a funnel and plunger, biologic material is placed into the joint, followed by the small SiLO implant (roughly the size of a penny).
8. Real-time imaging (fluoroscopy) ensures the implant is accurately positioned.
9. More graft material may be added for additional support.
10. The guide tube is removed, leaving the SI joint stabilized and immobile.

This posterior approach causes less tissue damage compared to other techniques (like lateral fusion), which helps reduce nerve-related risks and shortens recovery time.

Who Is a Candidate for the SiLO Procedure?

Who Is a Candidate for the SiLO Procedure?

Though the SiLO is minimally invasive, it’s usually not the first treatment used. Before considering surgery, patients typically try:

• Lifestyle changes
• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Joint injections

Surgery becomes a preferred option when:

• The joint no longer functions properly
• Pain is moderate to severe and ongoing
• Other treatments haven’t worked

After the Procedure

Healing can take six months or more, but many patients experience noticeable pain relief within two weeks. Most can return to work within about six weeks.

Post-surgery care is very important. Patients should:

• Follow the surgeon’s movement and activity guidelines
• Avoid bending or twisting at the waist
• Take breaks if sitting for over 45–60 minutes
• Begin physical therapy around 12 weeks after surgery (if recommended)

Conditions Treated with the SiLO Procedure

Sacroiliitis (inflammation of the SI joint)

Sciatica (pain from the sciatic nerve, which can involve the SI joint)

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction (abnormal motion or wear in the SI joint)