Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
ACDF is a surgical procedure that removes a herniated disc in the cervical spine and fuses the vertebrae to prevent instability.
Symptoms
- Neck pain
- Pain radiating into the arms
- Numbness or tingling in the hands
- Weakness in the upper limbs
Causes & Risk Factors
- Cervical disc herniation
- Degenerative disc disease
- Cervical spinal stenosis
- Recurrent neck injuries
Diagnosis
- MRI of the cervical spine
- Neurological examination
- X-ray and CT for spine alignment
Effective Treatment Options
- Surgical removal of affected disc
- Fusion using bone grafts or cages
- Post-op neck support and therapy
- Pain and inflammation management
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ACDF a major surgery?
Yes, but it's commonly performed and often successful with low complication rates.
Will I need a neck collar after ACDF?
Yes, most patients wear one for a few weeks to aid healing.
