Neck pain that radiates down your arm, accompanied by numbness and tingling, can be more than just a nuisance, it could be a sign that an intervertebral disc (one of the shock absorbers in your spine) is damaged resulting in nerve compression. Long term spinal cord compression can also lead to balance issues. Let’s explore how anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery is designed to address this problem, offering relief from pain and restoring your ability to move freely.
What to Expect During the ACDF Procedure
ACDF surgery involves removing a damaged disc from the cervical spine through an incision in the front of the neck. The space left by the removed disc is filled with a bone graft or a spacer, which eventually fuses with the vertebrae above and below, creating a stable segment in the spine. This fusion helps eliminate the motion that was causing the nerve compression and pain, leading to the relief of symptoms.
Why is the Surgery performed through the Front of the Neck?
The anterior approach for ACDF surgery typically is done using natural creases of the neck, allowing for a very cosmetic scar that is hardly noticeable. This approach also provides direct access to the affected disc allowing for precise removal of damaged material. This method reduces postoperative pain and complications by avoiding significant muscle disruption and major nerve structures located in the back of the neck. It also facilitates the optimal placement of bone grafts or spacers for effective spinal fusion and stabilization.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from ACDF surgery typically involves just one night in the hospital, followed by several weeks of wearing a neck brace for comfort and to support the healing process. Physical therapy may be recommended to help regain strength and mobility. Almost all patients experience significant pain relief soon after surgery, with gradual improvement in function over the following months.
If you've been struggling with any acute or chronic neck pain, numbness, or weakness in your arms due to a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) surgery might be the solution you need. Dr. Sawires specializes in this procedure and can provide expert care tailored to your needs.
AUTHOR: Dr. Andrew Nagy Sawires is a highly skilled spine surgeon dedicated to providing exceptional patient care through a combination of expertise and compassion. Dr. Sawires is committed to staying at the forefront of spine surgical techniques and innovations to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients. He emphasizes a patient-centered approach, focusing on nonoperative methods and exploring all treatment options before considering surgery.
