Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF) in Freehold, NJ

Neck pain and spinal issues can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of your life. One potential treatment for severe cervical spine conditions is the Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF). This surgical procedure involves removing one or more vertebral bodies and the intervertebral discs to relieve compression on the spinal cord and nerves. ACCF is often recommended for patients with conditions such as cervical spondylotic myelopathy, spinal stenosis, or spinal tumors. Understanding this procedure can help you make informed decisions about your spinal health and treatment options.

At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we perform minimally invasive spine surgeries, including ACCF, to help alleviate pain and restore function. Our award-winning team of spine surgeons and medical staff are dedicated to providing top-quality care using the latest research, technology, and treatments. We understand the impact spinal conditions can have on your life and are here to offer comprehensive solutions to meet your needs. With our concierge services, we make traveling for surgery as smooth as possible, coordinating everything from travel to accommodation.

What Is ACCF and When Is It Needed?

ACCF is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving spinal cord and nerve root compression caused by various cervical spine conditions. This procedure involves removing one or more vertebral bodies along with the intervertebral discs to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots. The space created by the removal is then filled with a bone graft or a metal cage, which is secured with screws and plates to ensure stability and fusion of the spine. This approach helps alleviate pain and neurological symptoms, improving the patient’s overall quality of life.

ACCF is typically recommended for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or epidural steroid injections. Conditions that may necessitate ACCF include cervical spondylotic myelopathy, which is a degenerative condition leading to spinal cord compression, spinal stenosis, where the spinal canal narrows and compresses the nerves, and spinal tumors that may cause structural instability or compression. ACCF can also be necessary in cases of severe trauma or fractures affecting the cervical spine.

Patients undergoing ACCF can expect a hospital stay of several days, followed by a recovery period that includes physical therapy to restore strength and mobility. While the recovery process varies for each individual, most patients experience significant pain relief and improvement in function within a few months. It is crucial to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions closely to ensure a successful recovery and fusion of the spine.

The Surgical Process of ACCF

The ACCF procedure begins with a detailed preoperative evaluation, including imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to assess the extent of the spinal condition. On the day of surgery, the patient is placed under general anesthesia, and an incision is made in the front of the neck. This anterior approach allows the surgeon to access the cervical spine directly without disturbing the muscles and tissues at the back of the neck, which can result in less postoperative pain and quicker recovery.

Once the incision is made, the surgeon carefully moves aside the structures in the neck to expose the vertebral bodies and discs that need to be removed. Using specialized instruments, the surgeon removes the affected vertebrae and discs, decompressing the spinal cord and nerves. After decompression, the space is filled with a bone graft or a metal cage, which provides structural support and promotes the fusion of the remaining vertebrae. The fusion process is crucial for stabilizing the spine and preventing further degeneration or instability.

The final step involves securing the graft or cage with screws and plates to ensure it stays in place during the healing process. The incision is then closed, and the patient is taken to the recovery room for monitoring. Postoperative care includes pain management, monitoring for any complications, and beginning a rehabilitation program to aid in recovery. The use of advanced surgical techniques and technology at NJ Spine & Orthopedic helps minimize risks and improve outcomes for our patients.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After ACCF

Recovery from ACCF varies depending on the individual patient and the extent of the surgery. Immediately after the procedure, patients are monitored in the hospital for a few days to manage pain and ensure there are no complications. Pain management typically involves medications to control discomfort, and patients are encouraged to begin gentle movements to prevent stiffness and promote circulation.

Rehabilitation is a crucial part of the recovery process. Physical therapy usually begins a few weeks after surgery, focusing on restoring neck strength and flexibility. A personalized rehabilitation program is designed to meet each patient’s specific needs, helping them regain function and return to their daily activities. It is essential to adhere to the rehabilitation plan and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and any movements that may strain the neck during the initial recovery period. Gradual return to normal activities is encouraged as the spine heals and strengthens. Most patients experience significant improvement in pain and function within three to six months, although full recovery may take up to a year. The success of ACCF largely depends on following the surgeon’s postoperative instructions and actively participating in the rehabilitation process.

Why Choose NJ Spine & Orthopedic for ACCF?

At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for patients undergoing ACCF. Our experienced team of spine surgeons utilizes state-of-the-art technology and minimally invasive techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. We understand undergoing spine surgery can be daunting, which is why we offer personalized care and support throughout the entire process. From initial consultation to postoperative follow-up, we are committed to helping you achieve a pain-free life.

If you are experiencing severe cervical spine issues and believe ACCF may be the solution for you, contact us at (866) 553-0612 or visit our contact form. Our team at NJ Spine & Orthopedic is here to help you regain your quality of life and find relief from debilitating pain.