What is ACDF?
ACDF stands for Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion. This procedure is a surgery that helps to reduce or eliminate chronic pain in the neck and/or back.
ACDF involves removing a deteriorating or herniated disc from the affected area. The surgery is classified as anterior because the physician will enter the neck from the patient’s front instead of the back. After the disc has been removed, the surgeon will fuse the bones back together. Between each of the bones in the spinal column is a cushion called the intervertebral disc. These discs prevent the bones of the spine from grinding against one another and can also act as shock absorbers during exercise and daily activities.
Sometimes these discs can become damaged, causing a considerable amount of pain. ACDF usually offers tremendous relief for patients who experience neck and back pain, stiffness or difficulty moving.