Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Definition

An anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a minimally invasive procedure that relieves neck pain from bone spurs, herniated discs and/or damaged discs. The anterior approach of this surgery has particular advantages like: better access to the spine, less postoperative pain and limited muscle division and/or dissection. Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine performs ACDF surgeries frequently and recommends them for patients suffering from pain, weakness, numbness and tingling sensations as a result of pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve root.

Again, the anterior approach to this surgery provides several benefits for patients unlike the posterior one that requires operating through the back of the neck. We mentioned surgeons have better access to the spine during this method which means they can see and operate on the entire cervical spine—All 7 vertebrae from the C2 to the cervico-thoracic junction. During surgery, a relatively small incision is made in the front of the neck and certain barriers like tissues, muscles and organs are moved away from the disc space.

An x-ray of the spine will be taken to ensure it is the correct area being operated on. Once the correct space has been identified, the surgeon will begin removing parts of the damaged disc causing the compression/pain. After the damaged discs have been removed, a bone graft or synthetic/mechanical device will be put in the empty disc space and attached with metal plates or pin to ensure proper fusion.

After the bone graft has been put in place, the surgeon will close the incision and sent the patient off to recovery. Patients usually return home the same day as the procedure, but there are instances were a one night stay in the hospital is necessary for optimal healing. Full recovery from ACDF surgery generally occurs 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, but it may also take a little over a year (18+ months) for the fusion to full set in place. As with any surgery, Dr. Giovanini will discuss post-operative recovery and when you can/cannot return to your normal level of activity/functioning.

If you’re experiencing severe neck pain or numbness from bones spurs, herniated disc and/or damaged vertebral discs, call NeuroMicroSpine today to schedule an appointment with the spine expert Dr. Mark Giovanini. You can also see how this particular surgery help one of his patients, Tom! Click “here” to watch Tom’s experiences with severe arm pain and ACDF minimally invasive spine surgery.

For more information on minimally invasive spine surgery or to make an appointment with Dr. Giovanini, please call (850) 934-7545 or visit http://www.neuromicrospine.com/request-appointment.

We hope to see you soon!

The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.