When all non-surgical options fail, anterior cervical discectomy fusion surgery might be your surgeon’s last resort to treat a herniated cervical (neck) disc. As one of New Jersey’s most reliable and reputable orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Behnam Salari has the experience and skills necessary to ensure optimal results. He specializes in cutting-edge, minimally invasive techniques to remove the damaged parts of the herniated disc while ensuring minimal downtime.
What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion?
Anterior cervical discectomy fusion is a spine surgery procedure for patients with cervical disc herniation. This procedure involves removing all or parts of the herniated disc from the neck to decrease pressure on the surrounding spinal nerves and cord. Once the herniated disc is removed, the spine surgeon inserts a bone graft between the vertebrae to restore stability to the cervical spine.
Anterior cervical discectomy fusion is meant for patients with severe herniation, and it’s generally recommended after non-surgical options, such as physical therapy and medications fail to yield desirable results. Dr. Salari will carefully review your symptoms and medical history and administer multiple imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, and x-rays, to curate the ideal treatment plan for you, which may include anterior cervical fusion.
Anterior Cervical Fusion for Disc Herniation
Anterior cervical discectomy fusion treats cervical disc herniation, a condition wherein the jelly-like fluid from inside the intervertebral disc oozes outwards. The spinal column consists of 33 vertebrae, each separated by soft, cushion-like discs that absorb the shock of movements. Each intervertebral disc consists of a hard outer shell and a soft nucleus. Disc herniation occurs when the nucleus protrudes out of the shell because of disc degeneration, fractures, and other factors.
When the jelly-like fluid oozes out of the intervertebral disc, it pushes against the surrounding nerve cord and nerve roots. The spinal column protects the spinal cord, which branches out into other parts of the body in the form of smaller nerve roots. Disc herniation pinches and compresses the surrounding nerve roots, leading to inflammation and the symptoms of radiculopathy, such as radiating pains to other parts of the body.
As mentioned previously, anterior cervical discectomy fusion involves removing all or parts of the herniated disc. The surgeon will physically remove the protruding nucleus or the entire disc. After the disc is removed, the surgeon will use bone grafting material to replace the intervertebral disc. Finally, the surgeon may place a titanium plate on the affected vertebrae to facilitate optimal healing and spinal stability.
Benefits of Anterior Cervical Fusion
- Relief from arm and neck pain
- Relief from the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy
- Relief from the pain of pinched nerve roots
- Restoration of optimal spinal stability
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Minimal downtime and recovery period
Your Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion Surgery
Dr. Behnam Salari performs all spine surgeries, including anterior cervical fusion, using minimally invasive techniques. He makes a small incision in the front of the neck, through which the surgeon removes the windpipe, muscles, and arteries to access the herniated disc. The entire disc or parts of the disc are removed, and a bone graft is placed instead. Finally, a titanium plate is screwed to the affected vertebra to facilitate healing.
Dr. Salari’s minimally invasive technique allows you to return home the same day or a day after the procedure. You must avoid bending or twisting your neck for a few weeks, and the entire healing process may take up to 6 weeks, but you’ll notice the results immediately. You may have trouble swallowing for up to 5 days after the procedure, but the side effects will dissipate gradually. Dr. Salari will accompany you through every stage of your recovery.
Contact Dr. Salari for Anterior Cervical Fusion
Dr. Behnam Salari is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with specialized training in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques. He takes a patient-centered and personalized approach to spine care, curating a treating plan that addresses his patient’s unique concerns. Furthermore, he always diagnoses and treats the root cause of the problems, ensuring long-lasting results. Dr. Salari usually exhausts all non-surgical options before recommending a surgical procedure, such as anterior cervical fusion.
If you’re suffering from the symptoms of cervical disc herniation or need to consider your treatment options, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Salari at our offices in Morristown, Hackettstown, Sparta, or Randolph in New Jersey.
