Anterior Cervical Discectomy
What is an Anterior Cervical Discectomy?
An anterior cervical discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by a damaged cervical disc. This procedure is often recommended for patients experiencing nerve pain or myelopathy, a condition that affects spinal cord function.
The surgery involves removing the affected disc through an incision at the front of the neck. Depending on the patient’s condition, either a disc replacement or a fusion procedure using a cage spacer may be performed to stabilise the spine.
Who Can Benefit from Anterior Cervical Discectomy?
An anterior cervical discectomy may be recommended for patients experiencing:
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Persistent nerve pain in the arms, shoulders, or neck that does not improve with conservative treatment.
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Cervical myelopathy, a condition where spinal cord compression leads to weakness, coordination problems, or numbness.
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Herniated cervical discs, where disc material presses on spinal nerves.
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Spinal instability, requiring stabilization to prevent further nerve irritation.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before Surgery
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A detailed assessment, including MRI or CT scans, will confirm the need for surgery.
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You will receive pre-operative instructions, including fasting guidelines.
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The surgical approach and whether a disc replacement or fusion is appropriate will be discussed with you.
During Surgery
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The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
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A small incision is made at the front of the neck.
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The structures in front of the spine are carefully moved to access the affected disc.
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The damaged disc is removed to relieve nerve compression.
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Depending on the case, either:
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A disc replacement is performed to allow movement at that level (suitable for younger patients with nerve pain).
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A fusion procedure is carried out using a cage spacer to stabilise the spine.
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The incision is closed with minimal tissue disruption.
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The surgery typically takes 1–2 hours.
After Surgery
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You will be monitored in a recovery area before being transferred to a hospital room.
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Pain relief medication and mobility guidance will be provided.
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Most patients return home the following day.
Recovery & Aftercare
Pain Relief
Many patients experience immediate improvement in arm or neck pain, with gradual recovery over the following weeks.
Activity Restrictions
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Light activities can be resumed within a few days.
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Heavy lifting and strenuous neck movements should be avoided for several weeks.
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A soft collar may be recommended to support the neck during early recovery.
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Patients will start resuming normal activities after 6 weeks.
Physiotherapy
A rehabilitation program may be introduced to improve neck mobility and strengthen supporting muscles.
Follow-Up
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Regular follow-ups will be scheduled to monitor healing.
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X-rays or scans may be performed to assess the fusion or disc replacement progress.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most patients return to normal activities within 4–6 weeks. Full recovery, including spinal fusion (if performed), may take several months. Patients with disc replacements generally regain mobility faster than those who undergo fusion.
Expert Spinal Care at Thames Spine
At Thames Spine, Consultant Spinal Surgeon Mr. Daniel Rolton provides expert care for cervical spine conditions. Whether you require disc replacement or spinal fusion, we offer tailored surgical solutions to help restore function and relieve pain.
Contact Thames Spine today to book a consultation and discuss your treatment options.