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Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgery done to remove a degenerative or herniated disc from the neck. It is a surgery that helps to reduce or eliminate chronic pain in the neck and back due to problems with the discs. The surgery is anterior because the surgeon accesses the disc through the front of the neck instead of the back. There are many spine implant suppliers who supply various instruments for surgery, and with these instruments, the procedure can be carried out smoothly.

The Procedure

The procedure is simple, and the surgeons use instruments and devices that are supplied from the bone locking screw suppliers. The steps of the procedure include: –

• The surgeon makes a small incision at the front of the neck and then moves aside the neck muscles and the airway, exposing the patient’s disc and vertebrae.
• After this, they use a special X-ray and locates the affected vertebrae and discs.
• Depending on the condition of the patient and with the help of the surgical tools, the surgeon then removes one or more discs.
• Also, any bone spurs pressing on the nerve roots and surrounding the damaged discs are removed as well.
• Bone graft material, which is derived from a patient, a cadaver, or a man made product, is inserted into the empty disc space. These bone grafts may be fixed in place with metal plates and screws.
• After the process, the incision is closed, and the patient is placed in the post-operative recovery area.

What to expect in ACDF?

• It is usually an outpatient procedure, and so the patient can return home on the day of their surgery. This operation takes place under general anesthesia and so the person will be asleep during the surgery.
• After the surgery, most of the patients will experience some pain, but it can be managed by taking pain killers. However, the recovery can take up several weeks, and some people might have to wear a collar in order to stabilize their neck.
• Also, most of the people might have to meet their surgeon 4 to 6 weeks after their surgery for an assessment. And they might be asked to avoid strenuous activity until recommended by the surgeon.

ACDF carries some risks, but it is relatively uncomplicated, and so before you opt for a surgery consult with the surgeon and the cervical implants supplier for good quality implants.