Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

What does ACDF mean?

ACDF stands for Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion. To break it down, anterior refers to the front, cervical being the neck region of the spine, discectomy means removing the disc and fusion, joining two bones together. This is fusion surgery after removing the disc from the front of the neck (ACDF).

Why do people have ACDF surgery?

ACDF surgery is usually in relation to radicular pain, which is radiating from the neck, down the arms and into the fingers. It occurs when one or more nerves in the neck are affected by a bulging or herniated disc, causing the disc to compress the nerves and result in pain, weakness, tingling, or numbness in the arms that extends into the fingers.

During surgery, what actually happens?

An incision will be made in the front of the neck, and the muscles, trachea (windpipe), oesophagus (food pipe), and any other tissues in front of the spine will be moved to one side, allowing the surgeon to see the spine bones and the discs. The offending level is then identified using X-ray guidance, and the disc at that level is removed – this is the discectomy part of the operation. In place of the disc, a spacer or cage is put in, which is filled with bone graft to encourage bone to grow from the level above to the level below, forming one motion segment – that is, the fusion part of the operation.

In terms of recovery, patients typically go home within a couple of days of the operation, and recovery time is usually around four weeks. There may be some stiffness immediately following the operation, but this should ease with regular mobility and exercises prescribed by the physio.

Postoperatively, patients will wake up in the recovery area and be taken to the ward, where they will be cared for for a couple of days before returning home. Sometimes, hoarseness, sore throat, or difficulty swallowing may occur in some patients, but these symptoms should not persist for long.

Within a few days, the patient should be able to return to daily activities without any strenuous activity. Walking is encouraged, starting with short distances and gradually building up. Using proper lifting techniques, maintaining good posture, and following an appropriate exercise program while keeping a healthy weight will all help with a speedy and successful recovery.

As with all surgery, this procedure carries risks, and these should be discussed in detail with your consultant before making a decision.

This article is intended to inform and give insight, but not treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a doctor. Always consult a doctor for any questions regarding a medical condition.