Anterior Cervical Discectomy (ACD) in Bridgewater, NJ

What This Page Covers:

• Effectiveness: Anterior Cervical Discectomy (ACD) offers significant pain relief for herniated discs and degenerative disc disease by removing damaged discs and reducing pressure on spinal nerves.
• Procedure: ACD involves making a small incision in the front of the neck to access and remove the problematic disc, often followed by spinal fusion for stabilization.
• Recovery: Patients typically experience pain relief and improved function within weeks to months post-surgery, with physical therapy aiding recovery.
• NJ Spine & Orthopedic: We provide state-of-the-art, minimally invasive ACD with personalized care and faster recovery times.

When neck pain becomes unbearable and conservative treatments fail, many people seek relief through surgical options. Anterior Cervical Discectomy (ACD) is one such procedure that has provided significant pain relief and improved quality of life for many patients. This surgery is particularly effective for individuals suffering from herniated discs or degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine. It involves removing a damaged disc to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, thus reducing pain and improving function.

At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we perform minimally invasive spine surgeries, including ACD, ensuring patients receive the most advanced care. Our team is dedicated to delivering the highest quality outcomes with the least discomfort and downtime. If you’re struggling with chronic neck pain and conservative treatments aren’t working, it’s time to explore how ACD could help you get back to living your life without pain.

What Is Anterior Cervical Discectomy?

Anterior Cervical Discectomy is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots caused by a herniated or degenerative disc in the neck. The term “anterior” refers to the approach used by surgeons, which is through the front of the neck. This approach allows direct access to the affected disc without disturbing the muscles and tissues of the back. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the problematic disc and then may perform a spinal fusion to stabilize the spine.

One primary benefit of ACD is that it directly addresses the source of pain and neurological symptoms. Removing the herniated or degenerative disc alleviates the pressure on the nerves, leading to significant pain relief and improved function. This procedure is often recommended when non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, have failed to provide adequate relief.

The recovery process for ACD varies from patient to patient but generally includes a period of rest followed by physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility in the neck. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved quality of life within a few weeks to months after surgery. However, as with any surgical procedure, risks are involved, which should be thoroughly discussed with your healthcare provider.

When Is Anterior Cervical Discectomy Recommended?

ACD is typically recommended for patients who have not found relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. It is particularly effective for individuals with herniated discs or degenerative disc disease that cause significant pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, and arms. These symptoms are often the result of the disc pressing on the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to inflammation and discomfort.

Another common reason for ACD is cervical radiculopathy, a condition characterized by pain radiating from the neck into the shoulders and arms. This pain is often accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas. When these symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatments, ACD can provide relief by removing the offending disc and decompressing the nerves.

Patients with myelopathy, a condition resulting from spinal cord compression, may also benefit from ACD. Myelopathy can cause various symptoms, including difficulty with coordination, balance, and fine motor skills. By relieving the pressure on the spinal cord, ACD can help improve these symptoms and prevent further neurological deterioration.

The ACD Procedure: What to Expect

The ACD procedure typically begins with the patient being placed under general anesthesia. Once the patient is asleep, the surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the neck. This anterior approach allows the surgeon to access the cervical spine without disturbing the muscles and tissues of the back. Using specialized instruments, the surgeon carefully removes the damaged disc.

After the disc is removed, the surgeon may perform a spinal fusion to stabilize the spine. This involves placing a bone graft or a synthetic spacer in the space where the disc was removed. The graft helps promote bone growth and fusion, providing stability to the affected spine segment. In some cases, metal plates and screws may be used to further support the spine during the healing process.

Recovery from ACD varies, but most patients can expect to go home the same day or within a day or two after the surgery. Physical therapy is often recommended to help patients regain strength and mobility in the neck. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully is important to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal outcome.

Benefits and Risks of ACD

One of the primary benefits of ACD is the significant pain relief it provides. By removing the damaged disc and alleviating pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, patients often experience a marked reduction in pain and improved function. Additionally, the anterior approach used in ACD minimizes muscle disruption, leading to a quicker recovery than traditional spine surgeries.

However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with ACD. Potential complications include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and issues related to anesthesia. There is also a small risk that the spinal fusion may not fully heal, leading to continued instability and discomfort. It is essential to discuss these risks with your surgeon and weigh them against the potential benefits of the procedure.

Another consideration is the possibility of adjacent segment disease, a condition where the discs above or below the fusion site begin to degenerate faster than usual. This can lead to additional pain and may require further treatment. Your surgeon will discuss these potential risks and help you make an informed decision about whether ACD is the right choice for you.

Is NJ Spine & Orthopedic Right for Your ACD Procedure?

At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art, minimally invasive spine surgeries, including ACD. Our award-winning team of spine surgeons and medical staff are dedicated to providing the highest quality care using the latest research, technology, and treatments. Patients come to us from all over the nation because of our reputation for excellence and our commitment to improving their quality of life. Our comprehensive concierge services make it easy for patients to coordinate their care, from arranging travel and accommodations to ensuring they receive timely, same-day office visits. 

We understand the importance of getting back to your daily activities as quickly as possible, which is why we use minimally invasive techniques that promote faster recovery times and less post-operative pain. If you’re considering an Anterior Cervical Discectomy, we invite you to contact NJ Spine & Orthopedic to learn more about how we can help you. Our experienced team is ready to provide you with the care and support you need to achieve the best possible outcomes. Reach out to us today at (866) 553-0612 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation.