Magnetic Resonance Imaging/Ultrasound Fusion-Guided Corticosteroid Injection to Synovial and Ligamentous Portion of Sacroiliac Joint in Patients with Axial Spondyloarthritis

INTRODUCTION: The objective of the study was to retrospectively evaluate the feasibility of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-ultrasonography (US) fusion system for the guidance of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) injections and the clinical results of patients who underwent intra-articular and peri-articular injections. METHODS: In this study, MRI-US fusion-guided SIJ injections in 10 patients with active sacroiliitis were evaluated retrospectively. Injections were made in the synovial part of the SIJ in 5 patients and in the ligamentous part in 5 patients. RESULTS: Injections were successful in treating pain in all patients. There was no significant difference in clinical responses (post-injection 2nd week and 3rd month) between synovial or ligamentous injection groups. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The MRI-US fusion method is an effective and reliable option for SIJ injection guidance. There is no difference in the effectiveness of corticosteroid injections into the synovial or ligamentous compartment in the management of sacroiliitis in spondyloarthritis patients.