Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure performed from the front of the neck, aimed at alleviating pain and correcting anatomical abnormalities in the cervical spine.

Overview:

ACDF is generally considered less painful than procedures approached from the back of the neck. It is specifically designed to address conditions like large disc protrusions, requiring the removal of the entire or a portion of the diseased disc. The procedure involves placing an artificial plastic spacer in the disc space to maintain its integrity, which is subsequently filled with small bone pieces, facilitating the fusion of the adjacent vertebrae within six to twelve weeks.

Why Choose ACDF?

• Less Painful: Operating from the front of the neck tends to be less painful compared to the posterior approach.
• Addressing Disc Protrusions: Suitable for cases where there is a need to remove large disc protrusions or the entire diseased disc.
• Maintaining Disc Space: The use of a spacer prevents the collapse of the disc space post-removal.

Post-Operative Considerations:

Post ACDF, temporary difficulty in swallowing is common, and there’s a minimal risk of permanent hoarseness, as the surgery involves the displacement of the voice box and throat. However, these are typically temporary and resolve over time.

Posterior Approach to Cervical Fusion:

Cervical fusion can also be performed from the back of the neck, usually in combination with cervical foraminotomy or laminectomy. This involves the placement of screws into the bone, connected by small rods, known as lateral mass screws, positioned into the lateral mass of the vertebrae. These screws can be inserted into all cervical vertebrae from C1 to C7 and can extend to the thoracic spine.

Benefits of Posterior Cervical Fusion:

• Pain Alleviation: Highly effective in reducing pain arising from arthritic degeneration.
• Stabilization: Provides stability to fractured vertebrae post-trauma.
• Versatility: Suitable for maintaining stability in patients with instability or tumors.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) serves as a viable option for those suffering from cervical spine issues, offering a less painful alternative with manageable postoperative considerations. Whether approached anteriorly or posteriorly, cervical fusion provides essential stability and pain relief, accommodating a range of cervical conditions. Always consult with a specialist like Dr BSV Raju to discuss the most suitable approach based on individual medical conditions and needs.