Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion
Chronic neck pain lasting for months may be caused by a damaged spinal disc.
Over time, spinal discs can deteriorate due to repetitive movements, poor health, or trauma. This damage can cause the disc to slip out of place, leading to nerve root compression. When this happens, it can result in severe pain, stiffness, and even headaches, greatly impacting daily life.
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Speak with our expert team to discover whether anterior cervical discectomy fusion is the right solution for your neck pain. Contact Ceda Orthopedic Group today to learn more about our specialized treatment options and how we can help you find relief.
Procedure Overview
What Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion Is
Anterior cervical discectomy fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure that helps restore mobility by addressing neck pain caused by damaged discs and compressed nerves.
Treatment Description
This procedure is designed to relieve pain, numbness, and weakness resulting from nerve compression in the cervical spine (neck). By removing the damaged disc, the pressure on the nerves is alleviated, allowing for improved function and comfort.
What It Includes
ACDF involves making a small incision at the front of the neck to access the cervical spine. The herniated or damaged disc is removed, and a bone graft or synthetic spacer is inserted to maintain spine alignment and height. To ensure stability, a metal plate and screws are used, allowing the bones to fuse over time for long-term relief.
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How Does Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion Protocol Work?
Anterior cervical discectomy fusion (ACDF) is a two-step surgical process aimed at removing a damaged disc and stabilizing the spine.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy
In the first step, a small incision is made in the front of the neck to access the cervical spine. The damaged disc is then removed to relieve pressure on the nerve root.
Fusion
At the same time, a bone graft or implant is placed in the space left by the disc, ensuring the spine remains stable and aligned. This supports the spinal bones and promotes fusion for long-term stability.
Additionally, bone spurs may be removed to address symptoms of arthritis. This minimally invasive procedure directly treats nerve compression, offering relief with less post-operative pain and a quicker recovery.
disorders treated
What Does Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion Treat?
Anterior cervical discectomy fusion (ACDF) is primarily used to relieve pressure caused by worn or damaged discs in the cervical spine. It can effectively improve the following conditions:
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal Stenosis Spinal stenosis is a medical disorder that happens when the spaces within your spine begin to narrow. This puts pressure on the nerves that are spread throughout the spine and can happen mostly in the neck and lower back.
Herniated Disc
Herniated Disc Also known as a ruptured, slipped, or bulging disc, herniated discs occur when a fragment of the spinal disc nucleus slips out of boundaries and is pushed beyond the annulus and into the spinal canal. The disc is a gel-like cushion that prevents the spinal column bones from grinding against each other. Herniated discs are typically an early sign of degenerative disc disease.
Spondylosis
Spondylosis Spinal discs can be worn down over time as you age, but it doesn’t happen to everyone. Over time, spinal discs can suffer from trauma and wear-and-tear, making you lose flexibility and increasing the number of bone spurs. This can cause pain and weakness in the neck region. Spondylosis is specifically an age-related disease that occurs when the spinal bones begin to grow bone spurs and the spinal discs begin to thin out. This disease is also known as osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease more generally.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Quick and helpful answers to common inquiries.
Would I Be A Good Candidate For Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion?
You may be a good candidate for Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion (ACDF) if you have persistent neck pain, numbness, or weakness caused by a herniated or degenerated disc that has not improved with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. A thorough evaluation with your doctor will help determine if this procedure is the right option for you.
What Is Cervical Radiculopathy?
When you experience cervical radiculopathy, it is because a spinal disk disease has occurred within the cervical region of the spine. This can be due to injury, arthritis, a ruptured disk, or another degenerative disease. Cervical radiculopathy commonly happens to older and middle-aged adults. Younger patients can experience it if they experience an accident that leaves them with serious injuries.
How Long Is the Recovery Time After Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion?
Recovery time after ACDF varies depending on the individual, but most patients can return to light activities within 2 to 4 weeks. Full recovery, including a return to more strenuous activities, may take 3 to 6 months. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance based on your progress and overall health.
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In Miami, Fl
Take the first step toward pain relief by scheduling your initial consultation with one of our experienced doctors at Ceda Orthopedic Group. Our team will guide you through your treatment options and help you decide if anterior cervical discectomy fusion is the right solution for you.
