Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) Surgery: A Complete Guide

What is ACDF Surgery?

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots caused by a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine (neck). It involves removing the damaged disc and stabilizing the spine through fusion.

ACDF is often recommended when conservative treatments such as physical therapy or pain management fail to provide relief, particularly in patients experiencing persistent neck pain, radiating arm pain, numbness, or weakness.

Intraoperative lateral fluoroscopic image during anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery, demonstrating placement of an interbody fusion cage and anterior cervical plate between adjacent vertebral bodies.

Indications for ACDF

 

Dr. Gilete has extensive experience evaluating such cases, often identifying complex instability patterns that have gone unnoticed elsewhere. Many of our patients arrive after years of misdiagnosis and find clarity and effective treatment through our thorough protocols.

 

The Procedure: Step by Step

  1. Incision: A small incision is made in the front of the neck.
  2. Disc Removal: The affected disc and any bone spurs compressing the nerves are removed.
  3. Fusion: A intervetebral cage is inserted to maintain disc height and promote fusion between adjacent vertebrae (DBM).

 

This procedure is often performed under general anesthesia using advanced neuromonitoring tools to ensure maximum safety. At Teknon Medical Center, we combine surgical expertise with cutting-edge imaging technology to guide every step.

 

Why Choose ACDF at DrGilete.com?

Patients often report feeling validated and secure when they first meet Dr. Gilete. One of our patients shared:

“Dr Gilete made me feel safe in Barcelona from the moment we met in person in our consultation, right through the operating stage and the final moment of discharge. I would recommend him to anyone in a heartbeat!”

We approach every case with compassion and scientific rigor. Our center in Barcelona is one of the few in Europe recognized for its expertise in treating connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a condition often associated with cervical instability.

 

Recovery After ACDF Surgery

Recovery typically involves:

  • A short hospital stay (1-2 days)
  • Wearing a cervical collar for stabilization
  • Gradual return to normal activities over 4–6 weeks
  • Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility

 

Our team ensures a personalized recovery plan. One patient reported:

“I had a C0-2 fusion and have made a steady recovery ever since. Last month I jogged 5km, something I thought I’d never do again.”

 

Risks and Considerations

While ACDF is generally safe, possible risks include:

  • Infection
  • Nerve injury
  • Swallowing difficulty
  • Adjacent segment degeneration

 

Through precise imaging and individualized planning, we reduce these risks significantly. We use intraoperative neuromonitoring to avoid neural injury and apply advanced techniques to minimize surgical trauma.

 

ACDF vs. Cervical Disc Replacement

In selected cases, cervical disc replacement may be an alternative to fusion, preserving motion at the treated level. However, patients with connective tissue disorders or severe degeneration may benefit more from a stable fusion approach.

Dr. Gilete evaluates each case with meticulous attention to radiological and clinical correlation, offering the best option for long-term stability and quality of life.

 

FAQs

 

How long is the ACDF procedure?

 Typically 1–2 hours, depending on the number of levels treated.

Will I lose neck mobility?

There may be slight loss of motion, but most patients do not notice significant restriction, especially if only one level is fused.

When can I travel back home after surgery?

We recommend staying in Barcelona for 10–11 days post-discharge for monitoring.

Is the procedure painful?

Postoperative pain is manageable with our pain management protocols, including opioid-free anesthesia when needed.

 

Conclusion: An Integrated Approach

ACDF surgery is a powerful tool for treating cervical spine disorders when conservative options have failed. At DrGilete.com, we combine surgical precision with compassionate care, advanced imaging, and personalized recovery protocols.

“From start to finish the care and advice provided was superb. I had hoped for improvements but my expectations have been more than exceeded!”

If you’re suffering from persistent neck or arm symptoms, ACDF might be the solution that restores your quality of life.

 

Request an Evaluation

You can choose:

  • Option A: Scan + consultation in Barcelona
  • Option B: Submit imaging for in-person evaluation
  • Option C: Remote consultation

 

Contact us for more information
 
 
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