Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
If you develop a herniated disc or experience disc deterioration, you can develop a range of painful symptoms. Your quality of life can significantly decrease, as you deal with pain, weakness, and numbness daily. However, modern surgical techniques allow for patients to find relief from these symptoms through anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.
Dr. Yashar is one of the top spine surgeons in Los Angeles, and he has already helped countless patients achieve a more comfortable life. If you are living with the results of degenerative disc disease or a herniated disc, don’t hesitate to call. You deserve to live your life to the fullest uninhibited by spinal problems. Call us today to learn more about treatment options, including anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, and what we can do for you.
What Is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?
Also called ACDF, this surgery targets damaged discs in the neck to relieve spinal cord or nerve root pressure. When performed by an experienced expert, ACDF can relieve you of all the symptoms that correspond to a damaged disc.
It consists of two primary steps. First, the damaged disc is removed. Then, the bones on either side of the removed disc are fused together to stabilize the structure.
While most patients will only need the procedure for a single disc, others might require multiple discs to be treated. Still, we typically first work with patients to find non-operative options. During your consultation with Dr. Yashar, he will work with you to develop a treatment plan that matches your needs.
Who Is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion For?
As a form of decompression, ACDF can benefit patients suffering from several different conditions. Below are conditions that this surgery can effectively treat.
- Cervical Herniated Disc: If one of your neck discs has slipped from between bones into the spinal canal.
- Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease: As your body ages, your spinal discs may experience significant deterioration. This can result in pain and a loss of mobility.
- Bone Spurs: ACDF can remove bone spurs caused by arthritis, providing relief from symptoms.
- Cervical Spinal Stenosis: This is a narrowing of the space within your spine, which puts pressure on spinal nerves.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Procedure
This surgery is done through the front of the neck, which provides both the patient and surgeon with several advantages. First, it provides immediate and visible access to the target disc. This approach gives the surgery a higher chance of success. Additionally, an anterior approach results in less pain after the operation.
However, each surgery will be different. Dr. Yashar carefully tailors his approach to be unique for each patient. He will go over every aspect of your procedure with you beforehand so that you can make decisions with comfort and confidence. At Yashar Neurosurgery, we understand that surgery can be a source of apprehension and anxiety. But the more you understand about a procedure, the more it helps ease this nervousness. You will never be kept in the dark about any aspect of your procedure.
What is Recovery Like for ACDF?
Recovery starts from day one, and most patients will be able to return home the same day as the surgery. At most, some patients spend one night in the hospital.
The exact duration of your recovery will vary according to your surgery. However, Dr. Yashar will provide an expected outline before you have your procedure. Generally, recovery lasts about 4-6 weeks. Though it varies a lot, you can return to work and your routines anytime between a few days and a few weeks.
Still, you will need to take precautions for several months. The fusion fully matures and heals only after about 12-18 months. Dr. Yashar will provide you with a full list of information and instructions about your recovery. If you have questions at any point in your recovery, we will be here for you.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you are suffering from degenerative disc disease or a herniated disc, you do not need to continue living in pain. Having an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion could be the way out. Take the next step in achieving a life that you deserve by scheduling a consultation today. Dr. Yashar, spine surgeon, and his staff work closely with each patient to find the right solution for you. We look at your previous surgeries and current condition, and evaluate what is the best path forward for you.
We look forward to working with you and helping you move toward a life of comfort and pain-free existence. Call us today to learn more about the treatments and procedures we offer. Fight back against damaged discs and achieve a better state of being through Yashar Neurosurgery and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.
I REALIZED THAT DR. YASHAR GENUINELY CARES TO CURE HIS PATIENT, WHICH MAKES HIM AN EXCEPTIONAL DOCTOR IN THE CITY.