I.Is ACDF surgery worth it?
ACDF is a surgical procedure. It alleviates a series of symptoms caused by nerve compression by removing protruding inter-vertebral discs and degenerative structures. Afterwards, the cervical spine will be stabilized through fusion surgery.
Some patients believe that neck surgery can lead to complications, such as increased load caused by spinal segment fusion, resulting in adjacent vertebrae degeneration. They even worry about future problems such as swallowing difficulties and temporary hoarseness.
But the actual situation is that the probability of complications caused by neck surgery is low, and the symptoms are mild. Compared to other surgeries, ACDF has almost no pain during the operation because it can minimize muscle damage to the greatest extent possible. Secondly, this type of surgery has a short recovery time and can help patients return to normal life faster. Moreover, compared with artificial cervical disc replacement surgery, ACDF is more cost-effective.
II.Are you awake during ACDF surgery?
In fact, ACDF surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a supine position. After confirming that the patient's hand and foot movements are normal, the doctor will inject anesthetics for general anesthesia. And the patient will not be moved again after anesthesia. Then place the cervical nerve line monitoring instrument for continuous monitoring. X-rays will be used to assist in positioning during surgery.
During the surgery, a 3cm incision needs to be made in the mid line of the neck, slightly to the left front, through the airway and the space adjacent to the esophagus, to the position directly in front of the cervical vertebrae. Doctors will use microscopic instruments to remove inter-vertebral discs, posterior longitudinal ligaments, and bone spurs that compress nerve lines. The surgical process does not require the movement of nerve lines. Then, place the inter-vertebral disc fusion device at the original position, and if necessary, add micro titanium screws to help fix it. Finally, suture the wound.
III.Do I need to wear cervical neck after surgery?
The time for wearing a neck brace after ACDF surgery is three months, but the specific time depends on the complexity of the surgery and the doctor's advice. Generally, the cervical brace plays a crucial role in the healing process of the cervical spine 1-2 weeks after surgery. It can restrict neck movement and reduce stimulation and pressure on the surgical site. This is beneficial for wound healing and to some extent reduces patient pain. In addition, longer neck brace wearing time can facilitate bone fusion between vertebral bodies. The neck brace provides necessary support while protecting the cervical spine, avoiding fusion failure caused by improper movement.
Post time: May-09-2025
