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California Neurosurgical Specialists
What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)?
ACDF is a specialized surgical procedure designed to treat nerve compression and instability in the cervical spine (neck). During the procedure, a damaged or herniated disc is removed through a small incision in the front of the neck. A bone graft or spacer is then inserted to maintain spacing between vertebrae, followed by fusion to stabilize the spine.
By decompressing pinched nerves and restoring spinal alignment, ACDF helps relieve chronic neck pain, arm numbness, and weakness caused by conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and cervical spinal stenosis.
At California Neurosurgical Specialists, Dr. Arnau Benet performs advanced ACDF procedures using minimally invasive techniques and precision imaging, helping patients recover faster with lasting relief.
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Signs You May Need ACDF Surgery
Cervical disc issues can cause symptoms that interfere with daily life. You may benefit from ACDF if you experience:
Persistent neck pain that radiates to the shoulder or arm
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands
Loss of grip strength or dexterity
Difficulty turning your head or maintaining posture
Worsening symptoms despite physical therapy, medications, or injections
These signs may indicate compression of the spinal cord or nerves in the cervical spine, which is a condition ACDF is specifically designed to treat.
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Who Is an Ideal Candidate for ACDF Surgery?
You may be a strong candidate for ACDF if:
Imaging (MRI or CT) confirms disc herniation or cervical spinal stenosis
You’ve tried non-surgical treatments with little to no relief
You’re experiencing symptoms of nerve compression, including weakness, numbness, or shooting pain
Your quality of life or ability to work is affected by neck or arm pain
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What to Expect During ACDF Surgery
ACDF is typically performed as an outpatient or short-stay procedure under general anesthesia. Here’s what to expect:
1.
Preoperative Planning
Dr. Benet uses advanced imaging to pinpoint the damaged disc and plan a personalized surgical approach.
2.
Discectomy
A small incision is made at the front of the neck. The damaged disc is removed to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots.
3.
Fusion and Stabilization
A bone graft or synthetic spacer is inserted in place of the removed disc to preserve height and promote fusion. A small plate and screws may be used to ensure stability.
4.
Recovery
Most patients return home the same day or the following morning. A cervical collar may be worn temporarily, and physical therapy can help restore range of motion.
Many patients experience significant relief from neck and arm pain within a few days, with continued improvement over several weeks.
Frequently asked Questions
FAQs About ACDF Surgery
How long is recovery after ACDF?
a.
Most patients return to light activity within one to two weeks. Full recovery, including bone fusion, typically takes two to three months, with progressive improvement in symptoms.
Will ACDF reduce my neck mobility?
a.
You may lose some motion at the fused level, but most patients report better overall mobility due to pain relief and muscle relaxation.
Is ACDF surgery safe?
a.
ACDF is a well-established and commonly performed procedure with a high success rate and low complication risk, especially when performed by a skilled neurosurgeon.
Will I need more surgery in the future?
a.
While most patients do not, adjacent segment degeneration is possible over time. Ongoing spinal health and follow-up care are important.
Where to FIND the Best ACDF Surgeon in Los Angeles
At California Neurosurgical Specialists, Dr. Arnau Benet offers expert ACDF surgery backed by years of neurosurgical experience and a commitment to minimally invasive care. Our Thousand Oaks practice serves patients throughout Southern California, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and beyond, providing compassionate, cutting-edge treatment for neck and nerve conditions.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation with the best ACDF surgeon in Los Angeles to get relief from pain and to get your life back.
Renowned Neurosurgeon
Dr. Arnau Benet
Location
Thousand Oaks, CA
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Hours
Mon - Fri
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
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