Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a procedure frequently used for the treatment of various problems in the intervertebral discs of the cervical spine.
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If you are interested in knowing more about this surgery, its benefits, what it consists of, why it is done and how to prepare for the intervention, continue in our publication!
What is anterior cervical discectomy and fusion?
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is surgery performed to treat disc problems in the cervical region. This procedure involves removing the damaged cervical disc and fusing two adjacent vertebrae together to stabilize the cervical spine and prevent future problems.
Why is the ACDF done?
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is performed to resolve a number of conditions that can include herniated discs, disc degeneration, and spinal stenosis. This surgery can relieve the symptoms that usually accompany these conditions, including: neck, shoulder, arm pain, numbness in the hands and muscle weakness.
How to prepare for the ACDF?
To prepare for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery, it is important to talk with your specialist about the specific details of the procedure and post-operative conditions. Likewise, you should avoid eating or drinking at least 8 hours before surgery and follow the instructions on the medications that you should stop before surgery.
ACDF Surgical Technique
The anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedure begins with an incision in the anterior midline of the neck; The surgeon then separates the soft tissues to access the spine. Once the damaged disc is identified, the disc material that is pressing on the nerve roots is removed, and finally a bone graft is inserted into the space where the disc was located to allow the vertebrae to fuse together.
Materials used in ACDF surgery include a bone graft and a metal plate. The bone graft is placed in the space where the damaged disc was removed to help the bones grow together and form a single solid piece; The metal plate is attached to the front of the neck to hold the bones in place while fusion occurs.
Recovery from anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
Recovery from anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) can vary depending on each patient and the degree of progression of the condition being treated. Patients can expect recovery from symptoms in the neck, arms, and hands in the weeks and months following surgery. Despite its high rate of effectiveness, it is important to note that there are some risks and side effects associated with this surgical procedure.
ACDF Risks and Side Effects
Like any surgery, ACDF has potential associated risks. Here are some of the complications that may be observed after an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion are:
Complications from anesthesia
Bleeding from injury to a blood vessel in the neck
Sore throat and difficulty swallowing food
Laryngeal nerve damage
Shortness of breath
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