ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion)

ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion)

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a surgery performed to relieve neck pain, arm pain, numbness, or weakness caused by a damaged or herniated disc in the cervical spine (neck). This procedure also helps reduce pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

How ACDF Works

• The surgery is done through a small incision at the front of the neck.
• The doctor removes the damaged or herniated disc that is causing pain or nerve compression.
• The space between the vertebrae is filled with a bone graft or implant.
• The vertebrae are then fused to create long-term spinal stability.
• Fusion sacrifices some motion at the treated level to restore stability.

Conditions ACDF Treats

ACDF is commonly recommended for:

• Herniated or degenerated discs in the neck.
• Spinal stenosis causes nerve compression.
• Pinched nerves leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms.
• Chronic neck pain that has not improved with medications, injections, or physical therapy.

Benefits of ACDF

• Relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
• Reduces neck pain, arm pain, numbness, or weakness.
• Restores spinal stability.
• It can improve the quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

What to Expect During Recovery

• ACDF is performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia.
• Recovery usually includes a short hospital stay, often 1–2 days, depending on the patient.
• Patients may need to wear a neck brace for several weeks.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to help improve strength and mobility.
• Full recovery can take several months, but many patients notice improvement in pain and function soon after surgery.

Safety & Recovery Tips

• Follow all post-operative instructions from your surgeon.
• Avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or high-impact activities until cleared.
• Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and fusion progress.
• Contact your doctor immediately if you notice fever, worsening pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty swallowing.