What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?

Anterior Cervical Discectomy

Anterior cervical discectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a damaged disc from the cervical spine. The term “anterior” refers to the front of the neck, where the incision is made. This approach allows spine surgeons to access the cervical discs without disturbing the spinal cord and nerve roots that lie behind them.

The Fusion Process                                 

After the discectomy, the surgeon performs a spinal fusion. This involves placing a bone graft in the empty disc space and securing the spine with a metal plate and screws to encourage the bones to grow together, forming a single solid bone. This process stabilizes the spine and prevents further movement that could cause pain. The bone graft can be sourced from the patient’s own body, a donor, or be a synthetic substitute.

ACDF is often recommended for individuals experiencing severe neck pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms caused by pressure on the nerves or spinal cord. These symptoms are typically due to a herniated or degenerative disc. By removing the damaged disc and stabilizing the spine, ACDF can provide significant relief from these symptoms.

Pre-Surgery Assessments

Before undergoing ACDF surgery, patients will undergo an evaluation including imaging tests like X-rays and MRIs, to determine the extent of the disc damage and amount of nerve compression. This helps the surgeon plan the procedure and select the appropriate approach for the discectomy and fusion.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Patients are often advised to make certain lifestyle adjustments before surgery. This may include quitting smoking, as it can impede the healing process, and making dietary changes to promote overall health and recovery.

Immediate Post-Surgery

Recovery from anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) varies from person to person. The procedure is often performed as an outpatient when involving one or two discs.  For more extensive procedures the patients typically stay in the hospital for one to two days. During this time, they are monitored for any complications and begin to manage pain with medication.

Weeks After Surgery

In the weeks after surgery, patients can resume many of their normal activities.  A neck brace may be used to support the healing process. It’s essential to follow the surgeon’s instructions during this period to ensure proper healing. Physical therapy often begins a few months after surgery to help improve function and strengthen the neck.

Long-Term Recovery

Complete recovery from ACDF can take several months to a year.  Patients are usually able to return to full activities, including sports, several months after surgery.  Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are crucial to monitor the progress of the spinal fusion.

Importance of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process after ACDF surgery. It helps patients regain lost neurological function and improve strength and flexibility in the neck. A tailored physical therapy program can address specific needs and help prevent future issues with the cervical spine.

Long-Term Management

Even after recovering from ACDF surgery, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to support spinal health. This includes regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing good posture. Regular check-ups with the spine surgeon are also important to ensure the continued health of the cervical spine.

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with cervical discectomy and fusion. These can include infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. There is also a risk of the bone graft not fusing properly, which may require additional surgery. However, when performed by experienced spine surgeons, the risks are minimized, and the success rate of ACDF is high.

Authors of this Blog: The Ridgewood Spine Team