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Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
Neck surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord using an anterior approach, a worn disc is removed from the neck to relieve nerve root pressure and pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling.
What is cervical discectomy with fusion?
The spine is a complex structure of discs, bones and joints. Over time, this structure can wear down and become unstable. This destabilisation can lead to pain in the back of your neck or down your arms.
It can also cause other problems, like loss of bladder control or numbness in your legs. Surgery may be necessary to stop the symptoms getting worse.
Need to know
This is a surgical procedure that combines a discectomy and insertion of a cage or piece of bone into the empty space left behind. The cage or piece of bone fuses with the vertebrae over time. Bone taken from the hip or artificial bone in the cage itself can be used to help fusion occur.
If you suffer from pain, weakness or numbness in your neck, arms and legs, a spinal disc may be pressing on spinal nerve roots. Your consultant may recommend a cervical discectomy to remove the problem disc from your neck, relieving the pressure on your spinal nerve root.
Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have. Because general anaesthetic is used during the procedure, you may need to fast for several hours before the operation.
Your consultant will tell you how long you should avoid eating and drinking. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
After your surgery, you may need to wear a semi-rigid cervical collar when sitting and moving. The surgical wound is closed with sutures and clean dressings, which remain in place for a few days. At this point, the wound can be left uncovered.
You won't be able to drive for two weeks after your operation, as you'll have limited mobility and won't be able to view mirrors properly.
Anterior Cervical discectomy and fusion is successful in relieving arm pain in the majority of cases (90-100%). However arm numbness or weakness may continue for months afterwards.
Neck pain is also relieved but ACDF is more effective in treating arm pain.
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion Consultants
Mr Parag Sayal
Neurosurgery
Mr Sinan Barazi
Neurosurgery
Mr Rohit Shetty
Orthopaedic Surgery
Mr Andraay Leung
Orthopaedic Surgery
Our locations
Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road W1T 7HA London
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street W1W 5AH London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.