What is an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?

In this video Dr. Thuy Nguyen, will review general information about the Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion procedure, known by the acronym (ACDF). The neck includes seven small bones called vertebrae. They are separated by discs, which act as space holders. Years of wear and tear can cause the breakdown of the discs, reducing the space between vertebrae. This condition is known as cervical disc disease. Like a herniated disc, it can cause pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

The Symptoms of Cervical Disc Damage May Include:

• Neck pain

• Stiff neck

• Numbness or tingling

• Pain spreading to the shoulder, arm, hand and fingers

A Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a minimally invasive procedure in which the surgeon alleviates pressure from the spinal cord and nerve by removing the entire disc and then permanently joins two or more vertebrae. When non-surgical treatment is not feasible or simply does not work, we can restore the neck’s structure surgically.

Thanks to our advanced technology and techniques, the procedure has an incredibly high success rate and requires minimal downtime. In the surgery, the patient lies on their back, positioned face up, allowing me to reach the damaged disc from the front (anterior) of the neck through a small incision, about one inch long. By proceeding with the procedure from this vantage point, I have better access to the damage disc or discs and they can more easily be removed.

After removing the damaged discs I will prepare the bones above and below the disc for grafting, The grafts are precisely positioned between vertebrae and secured with a metal plate if necessary. As the area heals, the graft material fuses with the bone. When the ACDF procedure is complete, the pressure is immediately relieved from the  patients spinal cord, decreasing pain and discomfort and preventing further damage to the nerve and spinal cord.

I hope this information about the ACDF has given you answers to your immediate questions about the procedure. As a neurosurgeon I can be a valuable source to answer your questions about symptoms, treatment and your healthcare.

Please feel free to contact our office by the phone number on your screen or request an appointment at JosephSpine.com.