What Is ACDF?
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a procedure in which a damaged disc in the neck is removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, followed by stabilization of the spine.
When Is It Considered?
ACDF may be considered in patients with:
- Cervical disc herniation
- Cervical spinal stenosis
- Cervical radiculopathy
- Cervical myelopathy
What Does It Treat?
ACDF relieves nerve or spinal cord compression and stabilizes the affected segment of the spine.
What to Expect
The procedure is performed through a small incision in the front of the neck using a microscope to allow for precise visualization. A spacer or implant is placed, and the bones are stabilized to allow fusion over time.
Next Steps
A detailed evaluation is required to determine if ACDF is appropriate based on your symptoms and imaging findings.