Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Compared with Sham Operation (SIFSO Trial): A Concise Follow-up, at 2 Years, of a Previous Report.
Thomas Johan Kibsgård, Paul Gerdhem, Elias Diarbakerli et al.
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In 30 seconds
The SIFSO trial, a double-blinded, sham-controlled randomized trial, evaluated minimally invasive sacroiliac joint (SIJ) fusion for pain relief in 63 patients over 2 years. At 2 years, the initial fusion group showed a mean reduction of 3.1 points on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), while the crossover group had a reduction of 3.5 points, indicating sustained pain relief.
Key findings
- Initial fusion group showed a mean NRS reduction of 3.1 points at 2 years.
- Crossover group experienced a mean NRS reduction of 3.5 points at 2 years.
- Sham group that did not cross over had a mean NRS reduction of 1.6 points.
- All 63 patients completed the 2-year follow-up.
Why it matters
This study highlights the potential for sustained pain relief from minimally invasive SIJ fusion, which may inform treatment decisions for patients with SIJ pain. Understanding the long-term outcomes can guide clinicians in managing this condition effectively.
What to keep in mind
Due to crossover and unblinding, the actual effect of minimally invasive SIJ fusion compared with sham surgery at 2 years could not be determined.