What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Neck pain can be a debilitating problem, leading to challenges in everyday life and keeping you from doing the things you love. When neck pain is severe and does not respond well to other treatments, surgery may be recommended. One neck surgery that may be recommended is called an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

Your cervical spine, or neck, is made up of bones called vertebrae. Between each vertebra are discs that act as cushions to absorb shock. These discs also protect the spinal cord- a vital communication pathway that controls movement and sensation throughout your body.

If discs deteriorate or become damaged, pain, numbness, and other symptoms can occur due to added pressure on the spinal cord or nearby nerves.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)

ACDF is a surgery your doctor may perform to address problems caused by herniated or degenerative cervical discs. The name itself comes from key components of the procedure:

A – Anterior
Anterior refers to the front of your body. In this surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the front of your neck to access the cervical spine.

C – Cervical
The cervical spine is the part of your spine located in your neck. It consists of seven vertebrae and supports the head’s movement.

D – Discectomy
The term discectomy means removing a damaged disc from between the vertebrae.

F – Fusion
After the disc is removed, a bone graft or implant is placed between the vertebrae, and screws or plates are used to stabilize the area. This process, known as fusion, allows the bones to join over time. Fusion prevents motion between the vertebrae, which helps relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, provides spine stability, and reduces pain.

Why You Might Need ACDF Surgery

As you age, the discs in your cervical spine can begin to wear out or become damaged. These discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae, can become thin and lose their flexibility and shock-absorbing abilities over time. Deterioration can lead to a range of symptoms that might interfere with your daily life, including:

  • Neck pain
  • Radiating pain into your shoulders or arms
  • Numbness or tingling in your arms and hands
  • Weakness in your shoulders, arms, or hands
  • Difficulty with coordination or balance
  • Headaches

When you start experiencing symptoms related to cervical disc issues, your doctor will likely suggest more conservative treatments before considering surgery. Nonsurgical options often include:

  • Exercise or physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles around your neck and improve flexibility
  • Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Steroid injections which deliver medication directly to the affected area to decrease swelling and irritation

Sometimes, these symptoms can persist or worsen even with these treatments. If you are still experiencing significant pain or neurological issues, your doctor might recommend ACDF.

Conditions that May Require ACDF Surgery

ACDF can be used in the treatment of:

ACDF Surgery – What Can I Expect?

You will be under general anesthesia during the surgery, so you’ll be asleep and won’t feel any pain.

The surgeon makes a small incision in the front of your neck to access the cervical spine. The damaged disc is removed, and a bone graft is inserted to stabilize the spine. A metal plate and screws may also be used.

After closing the incision, you’ll be monitored as you wake up from anesthesia. Patients may go home on the same day or stay for one to two days.

Recovery involves gradually returning to normal activities, often with a cervical collar for support. Physical therapy usually starts a few weeks later, with full recovery taking six to twelve weeks.

ACDF Surgery Risks

While ACDF is considered safe and effective, like any surgery, it comes with potential risks, including:

  • Reactions to anesthesia
  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Nerve injury
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Hoarseness or voice changes
  • Failure of the bone to fuse

Learn More About Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

If you’re experiencing symptoms related to cervical disc problems and want to explore your options, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced neurosurgeons. They can provide a personalized assessment and help you understand the potential benefits of ACDF and the procedure’s risks. They are also happy to offer a second opinion on your neck pain and treatment options.

Don’t continue to live with neck pain – schedule an appointment today!

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