ACDF
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Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a procedure used to treat a herniated disc in the neck. The disc can cause symptoms such as arm pain, numbness, tingling, and loss of hand dexterity.
The procedure involves an incision on one side of the neck. The surgeon uses a natural corridor between the layers of the neck to access the front of the spine. The disc between two vertebrae is removed, and an implant or spacer is placed between them, to encourage the two vertebrae to connect (fuse) as one. The implant is often packed with bone graft, which increases the chance of a successful fusion.
Many patients who have an ACDF experience relief of their symptoms, and typically spend 1 or 2 nights in the hospital. Expectations and specifics about your case should be discussed in detail with your surgeon.
Pre-op MRI showing a herniated disc in the neck (C5-6) and compression of the spinal cord.
X-ray after surgery showing an ACDF at C5-6.