Structured, surgeon-led training unlocks safe, effective complex spine procedures for interventional pain physicians—setting a new industry standard as practice boundaries evolve.

As patient demand grows for minimally invasive spine care, interventional pain management (IPM) specialists are performing procedures formerly limited to orthopedic surgeons—like percutaneous sacroiliac joint (SIJ) fusion. But can they deliver the same safety and efficacy? A recent multicenter clinical study provides the answer—and a template for safe expansion of scope.

The Study at a Glance

• Design: 276 patients, 47 IPM physicians, multiple clinical sites, all using structured training led by orthopedic spine surgeons.

• Groups:

• Group 1: IPM physicians supervised by spine surgeons

• Group 2: IPM physicians supervised by non-surgeons (clinical specialists/device reps)

• Training Included:

• Didactic instruction and webinars

• Hands-on labs and model-based practice

• Real-time mentorship on live cases

Key Results

• Safety:

• Group 1 achieved zero complications and zero revision surgeries.

• All reported complications and revisions occurred only in Group 2—pointing directly to the importance of surgeon supervision during the learning curve.

• Complications Seen:

• Rare and related to technical errors (e.g., implant placement, guidewire issues) mostly early in a physician’s series.

• Learning Curve:

• Supervision by a trained surgeon virtually eliminated significant risk, especially during a physician’s first cases.

Why It Matters

• Credentialing:

• With practice expansion, formal, surgeon-led training is not just recommended—it’s essential for patient safety and professional competency.

• Collaboration:

• This study models a path for multidisciplinary teamwork—orthopedic surgeons guiding IPM doctors—just as cardiology advanced with interventional procedures.

• Quality of Care:

• Adopting this model ensures new entrants uphold the same safety profile as fully trained spine surgeons.

Action Points for Healthcare Leaders

• Require structured, surgeon-led training for non-surgeon practitioners entering complex spine procedures.

• Standardize credentialing and proctoring protocols, emphasizing supervision in early cases.

• Foster a collaborative culture where surgical and pain management expertise combine for the highest safety outcomes.

Conclusion

The data is clear: interventional pain physicians can safely deliver SIJ fusion procedures, but only with robust, surgeon-led education and oversight. As spine care evolves, the path to progress must prioritize structured training, credentialing, and patient safety above all. This study establishes that with the right mentorship, innovation in spine intervention need not come at the expense of quality care.