Conditions treated
- Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve) with arm pain or weakness
- Cervical disc herniation
- Cervical myelopathy and cervical stenosis
- Cervical fractures and instability
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
Through a small horizontal incision in a natural skin crease at the front of the neck, Dr. Ferachi moves aside the muscles, trachea and esophagus to reach the spine without cutting through muscle. The damaged disc and any bone spurs are removed to free the nerves and spinal cord. A spacer filled with bone graft restores disc height, and a small plate and screws hold it in place while the vertebrae fuse.
Most patients go home the same day or after one night. Arm pain often improves quickly. Temporary sore throat and difficulty swallowing are common for a few days to weeks.
Posterior cervical procedures
Some conditions are better treated from the back of the neck, including multilevel stenosis or certain myelopathy cases. Options include posterior foraminotomy (to free a single nerve without fusion), laminectomy and fusion, and laminoplasty.
Recovery
Many patients return to desk work in two to four weeks. A soft collar may be used briefly for comfort. Lifting and overhead activity are restricted for about six weeks while the fusion begins to heal.
Common questions
How successful is ACDF?
ACDF is among the most successful spine surgeries, with high rates of improvement in arm pain for appropriately selected patients.
Will I have a visible scar?
The incision is placed in a natural neck crease and usually heals to a thin, inconspicuous line.