Anterior Cervical Discectomy
( ACDF ) & Fusion Surgery

If conservative treatments for neck pain have failed, Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) surgery may offer a solution. Also known as anterior cervical decompression and fusion, this procedure combines the removal of a damaged disc in the neck with the fusion of the affected bones to relieve pain and restore mobility. At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our fellowship-trained, board-certified spine surgeons specialize in ACDF surgery, helping patients regain a pain-free, active life.

What Is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Surgery?

ACDF surgery allows patients experiencing pain or numbness due to a herniated cervical disc to have the disc removed and the bones fused for relief. It is a common spinal procedure with a high success rate.

Conditions Treated with ACDF Surgery

Conditions treated with ACDF surgery include various cervical spine issues, such as:

• Bone spur removal
• Cervical radiculopathy
• Degenerative disc disease
• Herniated discs
• Myelopathy, or spinal cord compression
• Spinal fractures
• Spinal stenosis

Who Can Benefit from the ACDF Procedure?

The ACDF procedure is ideal for individuals suffering from severe neck pain, numbness, or weakness caused by herniated or damaged discs or decompression of the cervical spine. Those who have not found relief through physical therapy, medication, or injections may be good candidates, as the procedure can help alleviate pain and restore mobility for patients experiencing:

• Numbness in the arm or neck
• Neck or arm pain
• Muscle weakness in the hands or shoulders

Patients with conditions like a herniated, bulging, or ruptured disc that are pressing on the nerves and causing these symptoms are typically the best candidates for this procedure.

ACDF Surgical Procedure: What to Expect

Before your ACDF surgery, tell your doctor about your medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, as well as any supplements. You must stop taking any potential blood thinners, such as fish oil, vitamin E, or garlic capsules, before your ACDF surgical procedure. If you use tobacco or cannabis, the doctor may ask you to stop using these products in the weeks before your operation. The same is true for alcoholic beverage consumption, although the timeline is usually the day or two before the ACDF surgery.

Patients receive general anesthesia before the ACDF procedure. A breathing tube is inserted to aid with respiration during the ACDF procedure. That may cause a sore throat or difficulty swallowing in the days following ACDF surgery.

The ACDF surgical procedure is minimally invasive. The surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the neck, taking care to limit scarring. The surgeon removes the herniated disc or any other material impinging on the nerves. The disc is replaced by graft material secured by a small plate attached to the bone. Depending on the patient, that disc may consist of the individual’s bone, donor bone, titanium cages, or synthetic materials.

The entire ACDF surgical procedure takes between one and two hours.

While most patients will not need to spend the night in the hospital, they must arrange to have someone drive them home after ACDF surgery. Some patients may require an overnight hospital stay.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy Recovery and Rehabilitation

Avoid strenuous activity for at least six weeks post-ACDF surgery. Your doctor will let you know when you can return to your normal activities. Walking and similar low-impact aerobic exercise is encouraged.

Participating in certain activities, including contact sports, is not advised for at least three months. Follow your doctor’s advice when it comes to these activities. Depending on the physical demands of your job, plan to take four to six weeks off from work. This can also include jobs requiring long periods of sitting, which can cause neck pain during anterior cervical discectomy recovery.

Avoid heavy lifting, which includes tasks like carrying grocery bags or lifting children and pets. ACDF rehabilitation may involve wearing a neck brace and doing exercises recommended by your doctor to boost neck strength and range of motion.

Expect full recovery from ACDF surgery to take between six to 12 months in order for the complete solidification of the fused neck bone to occur.

Why Choose Hoag Orthopedic Institute for ACDF Surgery

At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our experts are dedicated to spine and orthopedic treatments. HOI was named a 2024-25 “Best Hospital” by U.S. News and World Report. When determining the best hospital to undergo ACDF surgery, HOI has a reputation and track record that is second to none.

Schedule a consultation with one of our top spine surgeons today by calling us at 949-705-6493.

We get you Back to You®!