Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery
What is Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery ?
Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery is a procedure performed from the front (anterior) of the neck to relieve spinal cord or nerve root pressure caused by conditions like herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis. The most common type is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF).
This surgery helps relieve neck pain, arm pain, numbness, and weakness caused by nerve compression. The procedure typically lasts 1-3 hours, with most patients returning home within a day or two. Recovery takes a few weeks to months, with physical therapy aiding rehabilitation. Risks include infection, nerve damage, and difficulty swallowing, though complications are rare. ACSS offers significant pain relief and improved mobility for patients with persistent cervical spine issues unresponsive to non-surgical treatments.
Indications for Surgery
Doctors may recommend this surgery if you have:
- Severe neck pain that radiates to the arms or shoulders
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms due to nerve compression
- Difficulty walking or loss of coordination (suggesting spinal cord compression)
- Failed non-surgical treatments (like physiotherapy or medications)
Types of Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
- A damaged disc is removed, and the adjacent vertebrae are fused using a bone graft or an implant.
Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)
- Instead of fusion, an artificial disc is placed to maintain motion in the neck.
Corpectomy
- A more extensive procedure where part of the vertebrae is removed to decompress the spinal cord.
Surgical Procedure
- Incision – A small incision is made in the front of the neck.
- Disc Removal – The damaged disc is carefully removed.
- Implant Placement – A bone graft, cage, or artificial disc is inserted.
- Fusion (if applicable) – Metal plates or screws may be used to stabilize the spine.
- Closure – The incision is stitched, and a dressing is applied.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Hospital Stay: Usually 1-2 days, sometimes outpatient.
- Neck Brace: May be required for support.
- Return to Work: 2-6 weeks, depending on job type.
- Physical Therapy: Helps restore movement and strength.
- Full Recovery: 3-6 months, depending on the individual.
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Hoarseness or difficulty swallowing (temporary)
- Failure of fusion (non-union)
- Adjacent segment disease (stress on nearby vertebrae)