Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
Neck surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord using an anterior approach
A worn disc is removed from the neck to relieve nerve root pressure and pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling
What is cervical discectomy with fusion?
It can also cause other problems, like loss of bladder control or numbness in your legs. Surgery may be necessary to stop the symptoms getting worse.
Need to know
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What happens during a cervical discectomy? icon plus
This is a surgical procedure that combines a discectomy and insertion of a cage or piece of bone into the empty space left behind. The cage or piece of bone fuses with the vertebrae over time. Bone taken from the hip or artificial bone in the cage itself can be used to help fusion occur.
If you suffer from pain, weakness or numbness in your neck, arms and legs, a spinal disc may be pressing on spinal nerve roots. Your consultant may recommend a cervical discectomy to remove the problem disc from your neck, relieving the pressure on your spinal nerve root. -
How to prepare for surgery icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have. Because general anaesthetic is used during the procedure, you may need to fast for several hours before the operation.
Your consultant will tell you how long you should avoid eating and drinking. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
After a cervical discectomy icon plus
After your surgery, you may need to wear a semi-rigid cervical collar when sitting and moving. The surgical wound is closed with sutures and clean dressings, which remain in place for a few days. At this point, the wound can be left uncovered.
You won't be able to drive for two weeks after your operation, as you'll have limited mobility and won't be able to view mirrors properly. -
How effective is a cervical disectomy? icon plus
Anterior Cervical discectomy and fusion is successful in relieving arm pain in the majority of cases (90-100%). However arm numbness or weakness may continue for months afterwards.
Neck pain is also relieved but ACDF is more effective in treating arm pain.
Our spinal consultants
Our locations
From complex spinal surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional spinal care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
Request a spinal appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced spinal consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344