What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?
An anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure used to treat spinal cord compression by decompressing the nerve roots and spinal cord at the cervical spine discetomy. This procedures stabilizes the attached vertebrae. ACDF is used when other non-surgical treatments were not successful.
Who is a candidate for ACDF?
If you have a herniated or degenerative cervical disc that is not healing with other treatments, having an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) may be a treatment option to consider. Prime candidates for this surgery are those who have had diagnostic tests that confirm a herniated or degenerative disc. Other candidates can include people who experience significant pain and weakness in their hand or arm or symptoms that have not improved with medication and/or therapy.
An orthopedic surgeon will thoroughly explain the procedure at your consultation if you are a candidate. Your surgeon will discuss with you the particulars of your condition and how you may benefit from the ACDF procedure.
What to expect during an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery
During the ACDF procedure, an incision is made in the throat access the front of the spine. The disc is then removed and a graft is inserted which fuses together the bones above and below the disc. Since the neck muscles, spinal column, and spinal nerves are not disturbed, post-op pain is decreased and providing for faster recovery. The natural healing process allows for fusion to be complete within a few months.
Recovery and pain management
This procedure usually takes one to two hours to complete. You will be asleep under general anesthesia for the surgery and monitored during the procedure as well as during recovery. We will make sure you are comfortable before discharging you to recover in the comfort of your own home.
Pain is managed with limited narcotic medication. You might experience hoarseness or a sore throat. These symptoms usually clear up after a few days to a week or two.
If you believe you may be a candidate for ACDF surgery, contact us for a consultation with one of our surgeons.
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“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
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“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
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“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
