Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a common spine surgery used to relieve neck pain caused by a damaged disc in the cervical spine. Learn all about why it’s performed, the recovery process, and more.
Your cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae that support your head and enable neck movement. When multiple levels of these vertebrae experience problems, a two level fusion cervical spine surgery might offer relief. As Columbia-trained specialists at Neurosurgeons of New Jersey, we regularly perform this procedure to help patients regain comfort and function in their daily lives.
The C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) vertebrae are critical in head movement and rotation. These specialized vertebrae work together to allow you to turn your head from side to side and to look up and down. If you’ve been diagnosed with a condition affecting these bones, it is important to understand how these bones are different from the other bones in your neck, especially if you are considering surgery.
Cervical spine surgery is a common procedure that helps many people find relief from pinched nerves and related conditions. If you’re preparing for or recovering from surgeries like anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), artificial disc replacement, or posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion, understanding post-operative guidelines is key.
Cervical spine issues can significantly impact your quality of life. Common symptoms include pain and reduced mobility. Some patients may also experience neurological symptoms like radiating pain down the arms, and numbness, tingling, or clumsiness in the hands and fingers. When non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, it may be time to consider surgical interventions.
