An Overview on Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Abstract

Cervical disc prolapse is a common cause of neck pain and neurological deficits, resulting from compression of neural structures by herniated disc material or osteophytes. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is considered the gold standard surgical approach for management, offering effective decompression and stabilization. The introduction of interbody cages has significantly improved surgical outcomes by enhancing fusion rates and minimizing graft-related complications. However, cage-related complications such as subsidence, migration, and non-union remain concerns that may affect long-term outcomes.