When is ACDF recommended?
- Arm pain, numbness or weakness from a herniated disc or bone spur in the neck that has not improved with conservative care
- Cervical myelopathy: compression of the spinal cord causing hand clumsiness or balance problems
- Some neck injuries and instability
What happens during surgery
Through a small incision at the front of the neck, the surgeon moves the soft tissues aside to reach the spine without cutting the neck muscles. The damaged disc and any bone spurs are removed to free the nerves and spinal cord. A spacer fills the disc space, and a small plate is often added so the two vertebrae fuse into one solid bone.
Recovery
Many patients go home the same day or the next morning. A sore throat and mild trouble swallowing are common for a few days to weeks. Arm pain often improves quickly, while the fusion itself strengthens over the following months. Most people return to desk work within a few weeks.
Common questions
Will I lose neck motion after a fusion?
Fusing one level usually causes little noticeable loss of motion, because the remaining levels of the neck still move.
Are there alternatives to ACDF?
Depending on the problem, options may include physical therapy, injections, cervical disc replacement or a posterior approach. Dr. Dare will review which fits your imaging and symptoms.
This page is general information reviewed by Dr. Amos O. Dare and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation.