Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
What is an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion?
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion, or ACDF, is surgical intervention indicated for cervical disc herniation, radiculopathy, fractures, and spinal instability unresponsive to conservative management. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged disc that is pressing on the spinal cord or nerves and then fuses the affected vertebrae together to stabilize the spine. The goal of this surgery is to relieve pain, numbness, and weakness in the neck, shoulders, and arms, while also restoring stability to the spine.
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You may be a candidate for an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) if you have neck or arm pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by a damaged disc in your neck that is pressing on the nerves or spinal cord. This surgery is usually recommended when non-surgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections have not worked, and imaging such as an MRI shows a problem like a herniated disc, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis. ACDF may also be considered if symptoms are getting worse, making it hard to do daily activities, or if there is significant weakness or spinal cord compression that needs to be treated.
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An anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is performed through a small incision in the front of the neck. The surgeon gently moves aside muscles, the windpipe, and blood vessels to reach the spine without cutting through major muscles. The damaged disc is then carefully removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Once the disc is taken out, the empty space is filled with a spacer or bone graft to keep the normal height between the bones. A small metal plate and screws are often placed on the spine to hold everything in position while the bones grow together, or “fuse,” into one solid piece. The incision is then closed, and most patients are able to go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
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The advantages of an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) include relief of pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, which can significantly improve neck and arm pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. By removing the damaged disc and stabilizing the spine with a bone graft or spacer, the procedure helps restore proper alignment and prevents abnormal motion at the treated level. Fusion provides long-term stability, which can reduce the risk of the disc space collapsing or causing further irritation. Many patients also experience improved function, quality of life, and the ability to return to normal daily activities. Additionally, since the surgery is performed from the front of the neck, it avoids cutting through back muscles, which can result in less postoperative pain and a smoother recovery.
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Please refer to our Patient Education Booklet for detailed information.
Disclaimer: All materials presented on this website are the opinions of Dr. Patawut “Pat” Bovonratwet, or Dr. B, and any guest writers, and should not be construed as medical advice. Each patient’s specific condition is different, and a comprehensive medical assessment requires a full medical history, physical exam, and review of diagnostic imaging. If you would like to seek the opinion of Dr. B for your specific case, we recommend contacting our office to make an appointment.