Every MRI explained before you decide
Non-surgical options are always tried first
The treatment
What is Cervical Spine Surgery (ACDF)?
ACDF means Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion. Through a small cut on the front of the neck, the damaged disc pressing on the nerve or spinal cord is removed. A titanium cage is placed in the gap so the bones join and stay stable.
In suitable patients, an artificial disc is used instead of a cage to keep neck movement. For pressure at many levels, or OPLL (a thickened ligament), a laminectomy from the back of the neck may be advised.
Who needs it
- Neck pain spreading to the shoulder or arm
- Tingling or numbness in the hands
- Weak grip or dropping things
- Clumsy hands or unsteady walking (cervical myelopathy)
- MRI shows pressure on a nerve or the spinal cord
Benefits
Why patients choose it
- Arm pain often eases soon after surgery
- Protects the spinal cord from further damage
- Small cut in a natural neck crease
- Short hospital stay
Recovery
What recovery usually looks like
Day 1
Walk, eat and talk normally
Day 1 to 2
Go home
Week 2 to 4
Back to desk work, usually
Week 6 to 12
Bones join, normal activity as advised
Every patient is different. Dr. Nitish gives you a personal recovery plan.
Cost and insurance
Most health insurance and TPA policies cover spine treatment, and cashless is usually possible. See the full cost guide for details.
Questions patients ask
Cervical Spine Surgery: your questions
Have a question about your own MRI? Send it on WhatsApp and the clinic will guide you.
Is neck surgery risky?
ACDF is a common and well-proven surgery. It is done through the front of the neck, between natural tissue layers. Dr. Nitish explains all risks before you decide.
Will I lose neck movement?
Fusing one level causes very little change in movement. When suitable, an artificial disc keeps movement at that level.
When is surgery urgent?
When the spinal cord is pressed and hand weakness or walking problems start. Early treatment gives the best chance of full nerve recovery.
Can cervical spondylosis be treated without surgery?
Yes, most neck pain and mild arm pain improve with medicines, physiotherapy, posture correction and sometimes nerve blocks.
Your surgeon
Dr. Nitish Agarwal, Consultant Spine Surgeon
MBBS, Orthopaedics, Fellowship in Spine Surgery · MMC Reg. No. 2013103163 · 15+ years, 5000+ spine surgeries
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