Advanced Spine Surgery
Cervical Fusion
Anterior cervical discectomy fusion (ACDF) relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerves in your neck, easing pain that radiates into the shoulders and arms and restoring your quality of life.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion (ACDF)
This is a common procedure performed when disc or bone fragments are pushing on the spinal cord or spinal nerves in the neck area. This condition generally causes pain that radiates into the shoulders or arms and sometimes causes problems with walking and fine motor skills.
How the Surgery Works
The surgery is performed by making an incision on the front side of the neck then creating a natural plane that allows for exposure of the spinal column. At this point, disc, bone and ligament tissue is removed and the compressed nerves are released. This space is then filled with a structural device and bone graft to allow for fusion of the motion segment.
The procedure is done under general anesthesia and most patients stay only one night in the hospital. Following surgery, the patient wears a neck brace for 2 to 6 weeks and can return to most activities within two weeks. Request an appointment to find out whether cervical fusion is right for you.
How It Works
The ACDF Procedure, Step by Step
Each step is designed to release the compressed nerves in your neck and stabilize the spine.
Access
An incision on the front side of the neck creates a natural plane exposing the spinal column.
Decompression
Disc, bone and ligament tissue is removed and the compressed nerves are released.
Fusion
The space is filled with a structural device and bone graft to allow fusion of the motion segment.
Recovery
Most patients stay only one night in the hospital before heading home.
What to Expect
Your Recovery Timeline
Cervical fusion recovery moves quickly for most patients.
Night One
Most patients stay only one night in the hospital after surgery.
Within Two Weeks
Most patients can return to most activities within two weeks.
2 to 6 Weeks
A neck brace is worn for 2 to 6 weeks while the fusion heals.
Keep Exploring
Related Procedures
Explore other surgical options for neck and spine conditions.
Neck Pain Radiating Into Your Arms?
Our board-certified surgeons will evaluate your condition and determine whether cervical fusion is right for you. Urgent, same-day appointments are often available.