Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF) Surgery In Pune
Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF) Surgery In Pune – Dr. Alok Gadkari
Looking for the Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF) Surgery In Pune? Spine-related issues can significantly impact your quality of life, causing chronic pain, mobility restrictions, and discomfort. If you’re searching for expert care, Dr. Alok Gadkari’s Spine Surgery Clinic offers world-class treatment with advanced surgical and non-surgical solutions.
Spine tumors, whether benign or malignant, can cause severe pain, neurological deficits, and mobility issues. Early diagnosis or expert surgical intervention are also crucial for successful treatment. In Pune, Dr. Alok Gadkari is a renowned spine surgeon specializing in spine tumor surgery, offering advanced surgical techniques and compassionate care.
What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF) Surgery?
Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves and stabilize the cervical spine. The surgery involves:
- Discectomy: Removal of a damaged or herniated disc causing nerve compression.
- Fusion: Joining two or more vertebrae using a bone graft or artificial spacer to enhance spinal stability.
The term “anterior” refers to the surgical approach—through the front of the neck—which allows the surgeon to access the spine without disturbing major muscles.
Why is ACDF Surgery Performed?
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Nerve root compression causing arm pain, weakness, or numbness.
- Cervical Myelopathy: Spinal cord compression leading to balance issues, weakness, or loss of fine motor skills.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear or tear of spinal discs causing chronic pain.
- Herniated or Bulging Discs: Disc material pressing the nerves.
- Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal.
- Spondylosis: Age-related spinal degeneration.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for ACDF Surgery
✅ Persistent neck pain radiating to shoulders/arms
✅ Numbness or tingling in hands/fingers
✅ Muscle weakness affecting grip strength
✅ Difficulty walking or balancing (in severe cases)
✅ Loss of bladder/bowel control (rare, but requires urgent surgery)
Diagnosis and Pre-Surgical Evaluation
- Medical History Review – Assessing symptoms, previous treatments, and overall health.
- Physical Examination – Checking reflexes, muscle strength, and pain triggers.
- Imaging Tests:
MRI Scan – Detects nerve compression and disc abnormalities.
CT Scan / X-rays – Evaluates bone structure and spinal alignment.
Electromyography (EMG) – Measures nerve function.
The ACDF Surgical Procedure Explained
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
- Incision: A small (2-3 cm) horizontal incision is made in the front of the neck.
- Disc Removal: The damaged disc is carefully removed to relieve nerve pressure.
- Spinal Fusion: A bone graft (or synthetic spacer) is placed between vertebrae, secured with plates/screws.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures.
Benefits of ACDF Surgery
✔ Pain Relief – Eliminates nerve compression, reducing neck/arm pain.
✔ Improved Mobility – Restores normal neck movement.
✔ High Success Rate – Over 90% success in relieving symptoms.
✔ Minimal Scarring – Small incision ensures cosmetic benefits.
✔ Prevents Further Damage – Stabilizes the spine, preventing degeneration.
Risks and Complications of ACDF Surgery
⚠ Infection – Rare but possible at surgical site.
⚠ Hoarseness – Temporary due to nerve irritation.
⚠ Difficulty Swallowing – Usually resolves within weeks.
⚠ Graft Failure – Rare cases where fusion doesn’t occur (pseudoarthrosis).
⚠ Adjacent Segment Disease – Stress on nearby discs over time.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After ACDF Surgery
- First 2 Weeks: Rest, limited neck movement, pain management.
- 2-6 Weeks: Gradual return to light activities; wearing a neck brace if needed.
- 6-12 Weeks: Physical therapy for strengthen neck muscles.
- 3-6 Months: Full fusion achieved; most patients resume normal activities.
- Avoid heavy lifting for 6-8 weeks.
- Follow physiotherapy exercises for faster recovery.
- Attend follow-up visits with Dr. Alok Gadkari for monitoring.
Why Choose Dr. Alok Gadkari for ACDF Surgery in Pune?
🔹 Extensive Experience – Specialized in complex spine surgeries.
🔹 Advanced Techniques – Uses minimally invasive methods for faster recovery.
🔹 Patient-Centric Care – Personalized treatment plans.
🔹 High Success Rates – Proven track record of successful ACDF surgeries.
🔹 Affordable Cost – Transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
Book an Appointment with Dr. Alok Gadkari
If you are experiencing neck pain, back pain, or any spine-related issues, do not ignore the symptoms. Early diagnosis and the right treatment can prevent long-term complications. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Alok Gadkari, the best spine specialist in Pune, and take the first step towards a pain-free life.
📲 Call now or book online for a detailed consultation.