Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion - Relief for Neck Pain and Nerve Compression
Have you been dealing with persistent neck pain, weakness in your hands, or tingling in your arms? These kinds of symptoms often point to worn or herniated neck vertebrae. If vertebrae deteriorate or shift, they can press on nerves in the spinal canal and cause persistent pain, weakness, or a loss of sensation.
If you have tried physical therapy, medication, or injections unsuccessfully, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) could be a viable surgical option to help you find relief.
What is an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?
ACDF is a specialized procedure that removes a damaged or herniated disc from the cervical spine (neck). The goal is to relieve pressure on the nerves or spinal cord causing pain and weakness.
After the damaged disc is removed, a bone graft (a piece of bone taken from another part of your body or a synthetic substitute) or a synthetic spacer is inserted into the empty space to maintain proper height and alignment.
What Conditions Does ACDF Surgery Treat?
- Chronic neck pain that does not improve with non-surgical treatments
- Tingling, weakness, or numbness that radiates into the shoulders, arms, or hands
- Spinal cord compression from issues such as bone spurs or degenerative disc disease
- Problems with grip strength or fine motor skills linked to nerve damage
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The ACDF Procedure
ACDF neck surgery is performed under general anesthesia through a small incision at the front of the neck (anterior approach). The damaged disc is removed and a bone graft or cage is inserted to stabilize the spine. Over time, the vertebrae will fuse naturally, providing relief from symptoms, stability, and improved function.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Procedure Highlights
ACDF surgery provides targeted treatment and can be performed at one or multiple levels of the spine. If only one disc is damaged, a single-level ACDF may suffice. For cases where multiple discs compress the spinal cord or nerves, a multi-level procedure addresses all affected areas simultaneously.
- Minimally invasive approach with a small incision
- The surgery is done through a small incision at the front of the neck, allowing for less disruption to surrounding neck muscles and tissues.
- Restoration of normal nerve function and spinal alignment
- ACDF relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This often results in a significant reduction in pain, tingling, and weakness, helping patients regain strength and function in their arms and hands.
- Use of bone grafts for natural fusion and stability
- Over time, the vertebrae naturally fuse together, creating a strong, stable connection that prevents further movement or compression in the treated area.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery after ACDF surgery varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the procedure. Most patients can return to light activities within a week and resume normal activities, including work, within 4-6 weeks. Full fusion of the vertebrae can take several months. Physical therapy is often recommended to help regain strength and mobility during the recovery process.
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 spinal fusion complications.
- Risks include
Segment degeneration (8.1%): wear-and-tear changes in the adjacent spinal segments after fusion - Temporary difficulty swallowing (5.3%)
- C5 palsy (3%): temporary weakness or loss of function in the shoulder muscles caused by nerve irritation
- 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.
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.
