Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)?
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure used to treat problems in the cervical spine (the neck area). It is often performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots caused by conditions such as:
Herniated discs
Degenerative disc disease
Spinal stenosis
Trauma or fractures
During the procedure, the surgeon removes a damaged or herniated disc in the neck (discectomy) and then heals the adjacent vertebrae together using a bone graft or synthetic material (fusion) to stabilize the spine.
Indications for ACDF:
Persistent neck pain or arm pain
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands
Difficulty with coordination or walking due to spinal cord compression
Failure to improve with conservative treatments (e.g., physical therapy, medications, injections)
Procedure Overview:
Incision: A small incision is made on the front (anterior) of the neck.
Disc Removal: The surgeon removes the damaged disc(s) that is causing pressure on the nerves or spinal cord.
Fusion: A bone graft or synthetic material is placed between the vertebrae to promote fusion, and the vertebrae are stabilized using a plate, screws, or other instrumentation.
Healing: Over time, the bone graft will grow and fuse the vertebrae together.
Pre-Surgery Instructions:
Medications: Inform your surgeon about any medications you are taking, especially blood thinners. You may need to stop certain medications before surgery.
Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your surgery.
Pre-Op Testing: You may need blood work or imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, before your surgery.
Post-Surgery Care:
Hospital Stay: Many patients can go home several hours after surgery, however some patients stay overnight following surgery, depending on the size of the surgery and/or other factors.
Pain Management: You may experience some discomfort or pain after the surgery, which will be managed with medications prescribed by your doctor.
Neck Brace: You may be given a neck brace or collar to wear for support and protection during the initial healing phase.
Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or twisting the neck for several weeks after surgery. Your doctor will guide you on when it's safe to resume normal activities.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapy program may be recommended to help regain strength and mobility in your neck.
Possible Risks and Complications:
Infection at the incision site
Blood clots
Nerve injury
Difficulty swallowing or hoarseness
Failure of the fusion to heal
Ongoing pain or symptoms
While these complications are rare, it is important to discuss them with your surgeon before the procedure.
Follow-up Appointments:
You will need to attend follow-up visits to monitor your healing process and ensure the fusion is progressing. X-rays may be taken during these visits to evaluate the alignment and fusion.
When to Contact Your Doctor:
If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately:
Severe pain or swelling
Fever or signs of infection
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Recovery and Prognosis:
Healing Time: Full recovery may take several months. The bone fusion typically takes 3-6 months, though this can vary depending on the individual.
Long-Term Outcome: Many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function following ACDF. However, some may require additional treatments if the fusion does not heal as expected.
Important Notes:
Always follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care to ensure the best outcome.
Support from family or friends during the recovery period can be very helpful.
If you have any questions or concerns before or after the procedure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.