Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure that aims to alleviate pain in the neck and arm caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. It involves a small incision to the front (anterior) of the neck and removing the damaged disc and bone spurs (osteoarthritis) that are compressing nerves. Instrumentation is then inserted in the form of interbody spacer, plate and screws to stabilise and fuse the vertebrae together.
Cervical laminectomy is a procedure that involves removing a portion of the vertebral bone called the lamina to alleviate spinal cord compression. It is commonly indicated for conditions like cervical myelopathy, herniated discs, or spinal tumours. The surgery aims to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, thereby improving neurological function and reducing associated symptoms.
Lateral mass fusion is a surgical procedure performed to stabilise the cervical spine. It involves an incision to the back of the neck and implantation of screws and rods into the lateral masses of the vertebrae to achieve fusion. This procedure is indicated for conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal instability, fractures and cervical deformities, aiming to restore stability, relieve pain and prevent further neurological complications.