Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)

An anterior cervical fusion is performed through an incision in the front of the neck. An anterior cervical fusion is used

• to remove pressure from nerve roots or the spinal cord caused by bone spurs or a herniated disc
• to stop the motion between two or more vertebrae

An Anterior Cervical Fusion is usually performed in conjunction with a Discectomy because the patient is experiencing pressure on a nerve. Discectomy means that the disc is removed. Typically, bone is inserted into the resulting space, and the fusion is then performed to restore stability to the neck.

This procedure removes a diseased disc (discectomy) through the front (anterior) of the neck (cervical). After the disc is removed, the spine must be stabilized. This is accomplished using a cervical plate and screws (instrumentation) and fusion (bone graft). Fusion with a bone graft is similar to glue that hardens over time to create a solid construct, which stabilizes the spine.

Learn more about cervical disc herniation.

The surgeons of SouthPalm Ortho-Spine Institute always consider minimally invasive surgery as an option.