Cervical Fusion vs. Discectomy
You may be wondering what the difference is between a cervical discectomy and cervical fusion. In an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) surgery, a herniated or degenerative disc is removed in the cervical spine. This can relieve arm pain and weakness from a pinched nerve root.
In this procedure, a part or the whole disc is first removed through a process called a discectomy. An incision is made in the right or left side of the neck and the spine is accessed. The affected vertebra is located, and the disc is removed. Bone spurs pressing on the nerve root are also removed to relieve pressure on the nerve.
The spine is then fused for stability. In this process, the disc space is prepared, and an interbody device is inserted. A cervical plate over the interbody fixed with screws provides stability until fusion occurs.
To learn more about ACDF surgery, click here.
Speak with your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms or for more information.
Important Note: This information is intended as an educational resource to provide an overview of the procedure. The information should, in no way, be used as a substitute for informed discussions between the patient and physician regarding possible and eventual course of treatment. Medical treatment is individually specific to each patient’s symptoms. The information contained herein may not apply to you, your condition, treatment, or expected outcome. Surgical techniques and practices vary. Complications may occur. It is important to talk with your physician about all indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, clinical results, and other important medical considerations as pertain to this procedure. For further information on product contraindications, warnings, precautions, and possible adverse effects, click here.
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