Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)

Relief for Neck Pain 
and Nerve Compression

Dealing with constant neck pain, numbness in your arms, or weakness in your hands? When the discs between your neck vertebrae wear down or herniate, they can press on nerves, causing discomfort and limiting your daily life.
If physical therapy or medication hasn't worked, an ACDF could be the solution. This minimally invasive surgery aims to help you move comfortably and live 
pain-free again.

What is AN ACDF?

ACDF is a specialized spine surgery that involves removing a damaged or herniated disc from the cervical spine (neck) and replacing it with a bone graft or cage. This process stabilizes the spine, relieving pressure on the nerves and spinal cord. ACDF is typically recommended when other treatments have not provided adequate relief for symptoms such as:

Persistent neck pain
Radiating arm pain or weakness
Numbness or tingling in the hands or arms
I used to have a constant, sharp pain radiating from my neck down into my shoulder and arm, making it hard to work or even sleep. After my surgery, the pain is completely gone, and I feel like I have my life back.

The ACDF Procedure

Performed under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes a small incision at the front of the neck to access the affected disc. The damaged disc is carefully removed to relieve pressure on the nerves, and a bone graft or cage is inserted to stabilize the spine. Over time, the vertebrae will fuse naturally, providing long-term stability and improved function.

Procedure highlights

Depending on the severity of the condition, ACDF can be performed at one or multiple levels, allowing for targeted and effective treatment.

  • Minimally invasive approach with a small incision
  • Restoration of normal nerve function and spinal alignment
  • Use of bone grafts for natural fusion and stability

ACDF is generally a safe and effective procedure, but as with any surgery, there are risks. At Ortho Westmount, we take every precaution to minimize complications and ensure your safety throughout the process.

  • Risks include
    Segment degeneration (8.1%)
  • Difficulty swallowing (temporary)  (5.3%)
  • C5 palsy (3%)
  • Breakage of implanted materials (1.1%)

  • Failure of the vertebrae to fuse properly (2%)
  • Changes in voice (temporary) (1.3%)
  • Infection of the surgical site (1.2%)

Personalized Care 
Every Step of the Way

From pre-surgical consultations to post-operative recovery, the team at Ortho Westmount will provide comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. We employ a multimodal pain management strategy and monitor your progress closely to ensure you are on track for a full recovery. Our priority is to restore your quality of life and help you get back to doing what you love.

I underwent surgery on my herniated disc, and I regained 95% of my mobility the day after surgery. My surgeon addressed my needs and performed a successful surgery. Their team is truly skilled, warm and I felt I was in good hands throughout my process.

Ready to Take 

the First Step?

Struggling with neck pain or nerve-related symptoms? Ortho Westmount is here to help. Our expert spine surgeons will work with you to determine if ACDF is the right solution for your condition.