Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure used to treat nerve or spinal cord compression in the neck (cervical spine).
During the surgery, Dr. Fried removes a damaged or herniated disc through a small incision in the front of the neck. The space is then stabilized with a bone graft and small plate with screws, allowing the vertebrae to fuse together over time.

This procedure relieves pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness caused by conditions such as:

• Cervical herniated discs
   
• Cervical spinal stenosis
   
• Cervical radiculopathy (arm pain)
   
• Degenerative disc disease
   
• Cervical myelopathy (spinal cord compression)
   

The anterior approach (from the front) allows direct access to the damaged disc and nerves without disturbing major back muscles.
Benefits of this approach include:

• Smaller incision and less muscle disruption
   
• Better visualization of discs  
   
• Faster recovery with less postoperative pain
   
• Lower risk of infection compared to some posterior approaches
   

ACDF is usually considered after non-surgical treatments — such as physical therapy, medications, and injections — have not provided lasting relief.
You may be a candidate for ACDF if you have:

• Persistent neck and arm pain caused by a herniated disc or stenosis
   
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
   
• Muscle weakness in the upper extremities
   
• Spinal cord compression causing balance or coordination issues
   
• Worsening neurological symptoms despite conservative care

Schedule a consultation for further evaluation. 

• Small incision – Dr. Fried makes a small incision in the front of the neck.
   
• Disc removal (discectomy) – The damaged disc is carefully removed to relieve nerve or spinal cord pressure.
   
• Stabilization – A bone graft or implant is placed in the empty disc space.
   
• Fusion plate placement – A small titanium plate with screws secures the vertebrae to promote healing and fusion.
   
• Closure – The incision is closed with precision to minimize scarring.
   

• Same-day or overnight stay: Many ACDF surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures, meaning you go home the same day or after a one-night stay.
   
• Return to light activity: Most patients return to desk work or light activity within 1–4 weeks.
   
• Full recovery: Fusion can take 6 months, depending on age, overall health, and number of levels fused. Maximum recovery can be expected at 1 year
   
• Physical therapy: May begin a 6 weeks after surgery to improve strength and flexibility.
   

Dr. Fried and his team will provide specific pre-surgery instructions, which may include:

• Stopping certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) before surgery
   
• Avoiding food or drink for a set period before the procedure
   
• Arranging for a ride home if you are discharged the same day
   
• Setting up a recovery area at home with easy access to essentials
   
• Quitting smoking, as it negatively affects bone fusion and healing
   

• Immediate improvement in arm pain or tingling for many patients
   
• Neck soreness and mild discomfort at the incision site for the first few days
   
• Gradual increase in walking and light movement as tolerated
   
• Follow-up appointments with Dr. Fried to monitor healing and fusion progress
   
• Avoiding heavy lifting and high-impact activities until cleared 

Contact Dr. Fried’s office immediately if you experience:

• Fever or signs of infection around the incision
   
• New or worsening weakness or numbness
   
• Severe difficulty swallowing or breathing
   
• Sudden, severe pain that does not improve with medication