No long wait times, immediate appointments available: (212) 348-3636
No long wait times, immediate appointments available: (212) 348-3636
Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on nerve roots or the spinal cord caused by a herniated disc or bone spur in the neck.
During ACDF, the surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the neck to reach the cervical spine. The damaged disc or disc fragment is removed along with any bone spurs pressing on the nerves. The surgeon then places a bone graft between the affected vertebrae. This graft encourages bone growth and fuses the vertebrae into a single, stable segment. The fusion also helps maintain normal disc height.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of the disc (nucleus pulposus) bulges through its tough outer ring (annulus fibrosus). Bone spurs (osteophytes) can form from calcium buildup in spinal joints. Both conditions can press on nerves, ligaments, or the spinal cord, causing neck or arm pain, numbness, weakness, or coordination problems.
Because many nerves pass through the cervical spine, pressure in this area can affect the arms, chest, abdomen, and legs. Patients with these symptoms may be candidates for Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion (ACDF) after nonsurgical treatments fail. ACDF relieves nerve pressure and reduces pain.
Before surgery, your surgeon will evaluate your overall health, age, lifestyle, and expected activity level after surgery. A thorough discussion of ACDF is essential before scheduling the procedure.
During ACDF, the surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the neck and locates the source of nerve compression. The damaged disc is removed. A bone graft is then placed between the vertebrae to promote fusion. In some cases, metal plates or screws are used to provide stability and support the fusion process.
Your surgeon makes a small incision in the front side of the neck and locates the source of neural compression (pressure zone). Then, the intervertebral disc that is compressing the nerve root will be removed. Afterwards, a bone graft will be placed between the two vertebral bodies. In certain instances, metal plates or pins may be used for providing enough support and stability, and to ease the fusion of the vertebrae.
Your physician will provide a customized post-operative plan to help you return to normal activities. Hospital stay depends on your treatment plan. Most patients can walk the same day as surgery. Many resume work within 3–6 weeks, depending on healing and activity type. Following your surgeon’s instructions is crucial for safe and effective recovery.
Results vary by patient. Risks include infection, blood loss, blood clots, nerve damage, and bowel or bladder issues. Fusion failure, where the vertebrae do not properly heal together, may require additional surgery.
Always follow your physician’s advice for a complete understanding of Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion (ACDF), including indications, risks, precautions, and expected outcomes.
