Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion, commonly called ACDF, is a surgical procedure designed to remove a damaged or herniated disc in the neck. The surgeon approaches the spine from the front (anterior), removes the problematic disc, and then relieves pressure on the spinal cord or nearby nerves. This process helps reduce pain, tingling, and weakness that often travel into the shoulders, arms, or hands.
After the disc is removed, the space is stabilized with a bone graft or implant. Over time, the bones in the neck naturally fuse, creating long-term stability. ACDF has been performed safely for many years and is one of the most common and reliable spine surgeries for reducing nerve compression symptoms in the cervical spine.