Imaging techniques for sacroiliac joint injections

Abstract

Injections into the sacroiliac joint for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes have become commonplace. There have been advances in the use of regenerative therapies other than prolotherapy, such as platelet-rich plasma and stem cells. Prior to the introduction of image-guided techniques, blind injections were performed. However, data have consistently shown that without image guidance, injections failed to be accurately placed within the joint. Therefore, the use of image guidance, whether by computed tomography, fluoroscopy, or ultrasound, is imperative to ensure accurate placement of the injectate. This chapter discusses these three types of imaging techniques for sacroiliac joint injections.