Neck · Fusion
Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF)
A common and well-established neck surgery that removes a damaged disc from the front of the neck and stabilizes the level to relieve arm and neck symptoms.
How it works
The procedure, step by step
Step 1
Access
A small incision, usually in a natural skin crease at the front of the neck.
Step 2
Discectomy
The damaged disc and bone spurs are removed to free the nerves.
Step 3
Spacer & graft
A spacer with bone graft restores disc height.
Step 4
Fusion
The vertebrae grow together into one stable segment over time.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Less disruption.
A quicker return to life.
The front approach passes between natural tissue planes of the neck, allowing access to the disc with minimal disruption to muscle.
Conservative first
A Conservative Approach to Spine Care
Dr. Record believes that surgery is not necessarily the first step for every patient. Whenever appropriate, she works with patients to explore non-operative and conservative treatment options first.
When conservative treatment does not provide sufficient relief — or when a patient would like to understand whether surgery may be appropriate — Dr. Record provides a comprehensive discussion of available surgical options.
Her goal is to identify the treatment approach that can help alleviate pain, restore function, and help patients return to the activities that matter to them.
FAQ
Questions about Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion
Don’t see your question? Call (213) 876-8670.
Will I lose neck motion?
A single-level fusion typically has little noticeable effect on everyday movement. For some patients, disc replacement is an alternative that preserves motion.
Why go through the front of the neck?
The front approach gives direct access to the disc and bone spurs without cutting through the neck muscles.
Will I have imaging done at the office?
No. There are no X-rays in-house. When needed, Dr. Record orders X-rays, MRI, CT scans, nerve testing or lab work through outside facilities and reviews the results with you.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
Dr. Record accepts Medicare, workers’ compensation, PPO plans and a variety of private insurance plans, plus cash payments. Many procedures need pre-authorization — our team will help check your coverage before surgery.
Relief for neck and arm pain
Find out if ACDF — or a motion-preserving alternative — is right for you.