Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

The anatomy of the cervical spine allows the nerves to exit in front. Because the disk collapses and narrows the foramen, most surgery to address a pinched nerve can be done anteriorly. Some cases can be approched with a small posterior foraminotomy if it is a single nerve. The anterior discectomy is done with a small approach with the help of a microscope. The entire disk is removed, all spurs in the foramen are removed to allow free passage of the nerve. A small graft of bone is placed in the disk to prevent collapse back on the nerve. A plate can further stabilize the spine during healing.

Surgery lasts about two hours and results in relief of the pinched nerve immediately. Most patients wake up with little pain because the surgery is minimally traumatic. I recommend use of a neck brace to protect the neck after surgery, but with a plate to support the spine, early mobilization is allowed. Within six weeks, most people feel recovered, but three months are needed for healing. Physical therapy improves the return of function after 4 weeks.