Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) in Glen Rock, NJ
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, often shortened to ACDF, is a spine surgery procedure designed to treat herniated discs and degenerative discs. ACDF is used to treat lower back pain , lumbar pain and to restore mobility. ACDF combines two distinct procedures: anterior cervical discectomy and cervical fusion to achieve results.
ACDF treats the cervical (neck) portion of the spine. To request additional ACDF surgery information: Call (201) 806-6099 or contact Medwell Orthopedics & Functional Medicine for Men & Women online.
What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)?
ACDF works by removing all or part of the spinal disc that is causing pain and strife. This is where the term discectomy receives its name: It literally means “to remove disc.” ACDF specifically targets damaged, slipped, herniated and degenerated discs located in the front of the neck. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion can be used to relieve:
- Neck pain
- Arm pain
- Neck swelling
- Slipped neck discs
- Herniated neck discs
- Degenerative neck discs
Because most of these problems deal with the neck portion of the spine, ACDF represents the best approach for most patients.
The word “anterior” in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion means “front;” the surgeon operates through the front of the neck rather than the back. This is a less invasive approach that offers many advantages, including:
- Easier access to the cervical spine.
- Reduced pain after surgery.
- Shorter downtime.
- Smaller scars.
How Does Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) Work?
Anterior cervical discectomy treatment is typically provided by an orthopedic surgeon or neurosurgeon. The procedure is often combined with cervical spinal fusion to support the cervical portion of the spine after the disc has been fully or partially removed.
During ACDF surgery:
- A small, horizontal incision is made in the front of the neck.
- The small layers of fibrous tissue that protect the cervical spine are removed or moved to make room for the surgery.
- The affected disc is located visually. This may include a mid-surgery X-ray to ensure accuracy.
- The damaged or herniated portions of the disc are removed. During ACDF, it is typical to remove most, but not all, of the affected disc.
- A form of spinal decompression may be performed. This is done to remove any bone spurs or excess disc material that can cause complications with recovery and healing.
- A bone graft, synthetic disc or other support is inserted into the open space where the affected disc has been removed. Over time, this support will fuse in to the spine, strengthening it.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) Recovery
After ACDF, hospital stays are typically minimal. Some patients return home the same day, while others the following day. Recovery time after surgery most often includes limiting solid food consumption and avoiding vigorous physical activity.
Request More Information
ACDF can be a procedure that restores quality of life and drastically reduces pain. To request more information: Call (201) 806-6099 or contact Medwell Orthopedics & Functional Medicine for Men & Women online.
Medwell Orthopedics & Functional Medicine for Men & Women
Address
33 Central AveMidland Park, NJ 07432
(201) 806-6099
www.BergenCountyDoctors.com
Hours
Mon:
8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Tue:
2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wed:
8:00 am - 6:30 pm
Thu:
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Fri:
8:00 am - 6:30 pm
Sat:
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sun:
By Appointment Only