Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure to treat neck pain caused by herniated or degenerated discs pressing on nerves. The surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the neck to access the spine, removes the problematic disc, and relieves pressure on the nerves. To stabilize the spine, they then insert a bone graft or implant between the nearby vertebrae, encouraging them to fuse into one solid piece over time. This procedure aims to reduce pain, improve nerve function, and restore neck stability.