Background: In the field of radiology, the interpretation of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) imaging poses significant challenges, particularly in non-specialized centers. Existing guidelines provide insufficient guidance on interpretation of various lesions across different imaging modalities, leading to frequent misdiagnosis and impacting patient care. These challenges persist despite educational initiatives by organizations like ASAS. To address this gap and enhance diagnostic precision, we propose the development of the Sacroiliac Joint Interpretation And Data System (SIJ-RADS).

Aim: The primary purpose of SIJ-RADS is to develop a standardized Reporting And Data System (RADS) for sacroiliac joint imaging for radiologists independent of the level of their working setting. This system is already known in other indications as being not only user-friendly but also yielding consistent results aligned with expert clinical imaging evaluations.

Methodology: A dedicated task force will oversee the RADS development. The significance of lesions and their diagnostic distribution will be determined through surveys and Delphi exercises. Once a preliminary version is crafted, its efficacy will be evaluated in a blinded reading exercise against expert opinions.

Timelines of the project: The project is initiated in 2025 and is planed for the total duration of 24 months.

Project Team:

PIs: Torsten Diekhoff  (Berlin, Germany), Xenofon Baraliakos (Herne, Germany), Denis Poddubnyy (Toronto, Canada)

Task force:

• Task force members from the reporting project
• 2 young-ASAS members
• 1 patient representative
• Representatives from ESSR / ISS