Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion
MIS-Anterior Cervical Discectomy/Fusion
When a damaged disc in your neck presses onto a nerve root, it can cause debilitating pain that can radiate through your shoulders and into your arms. Using a minimally invasive technique, known as an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion or ACDF, the herniated or diseased disc can easily be removed. The two affected vertebrae will then be fused together for stabilization. This surgery is performed through the front of the neck, as opposed to the back, with a small incision made at either the left or right side. This allows the surgeon to access the cervical region of the spine through planes between the muscles.
Because this minimally invasive surgery is performed through the front of the neck, instead of the back, it offers many benefits including:
- Access to nearly the entire cervical section of the spine through an uncomplicated pathway that minimizes trauma to surrounding areas
- Generally less post-operative pain, due to a smaller incision and less movement of associated tissue, muscles and nerves
- Minimally invasive surgery typically means less blood loss, faster pain relief and shortened post-operative recovery times, so patients can get back to their daily life and work sooner
Our Treatment Approach
Dr. T performs all Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion using the latest in minimally invasive surgical techniques and technology:
- Portions of a damaged, herniated or diseased disc are removed using a tiny camera and surgical instruments placed through a small incision at the front of the neck.
- After the space is cleared out, The small spacer that match your unique anatomy is packed with the bone graft material and this is inserted into the area previously occupied the full disc. This restores your normal disc height, alignment, and open up the spinal canal where the spinal cord and nerve roots have more room to properly function.
- The small screws are placed to secure the spacer to your spine. This construct will sit inside the disc. Dr. T does not use the bulky plate or screws in front of your spine. This can minimize difficulty swallowing and minimize collateral damage to the nearby discs and spine.
- The intended result is that, when the cervical fusion heals completely, one strong, solid bone formation takes the place where the damaged disc once was; thus maintain your normal alignment.
Our focus on minimally invasive surgical procedures means that patients generally experience pain relief quickly and see shortened recovery times that allow them to return to their daily life much sooner. Our patients often report an improved quality of life immediately following their ACDF surgery.