Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery
Advanced Neck Pain & Cervical Disc Treatment by Dr. Alok Gadkari
What Is Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery?
Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery is a procedure performed from the front (anterior) of the neck to treat problems affecting the cervical spine (neck region).
The most common procedure is:
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
In this surgery:
The damaged disc is removed.
Pressure on the spinal cord or nerves is relieved.
A bone graft or implant is placed.
The vertebrae are fused to stabilize the spine.
Other procedures may include:
Cervical Disc Replacement
Anterior Cervical Corpectomy
Cervical Decompression Surgery
The anterior approach allows direct access to the spine with minimal muscle disruption, leading to faster recovery compared to traditional posterior approaches.
Why Is Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery Needed?
This surgery is recommended when patients experience:
Severe neck pain
Radiating arm pain (cervical radiculopathy)
Numbness or tingling in arms and fingers
Weakness in hands
Difficulty in balance or coordination
Spinal cord compression (cervical myelopathy)
When medications, physiotherapy, injections, and lifestyle modifications fail, surgical decompression becomes necessary.
Conditions Treated
Dr. Alok Gadkari performs anterior cervical procedures for:
1. Cervical Disc Herniation
A bulging or ruptured disc compresses nearby nerves causing severe arm pain.
2. Cervical Spondylosis
Age-related degeneration leading to bone spurs and disc collapse.
3. Cervical Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal compressing the spinal cord.
4. Cervical Myelopathy
Spinal cord compression causing gait imbalance and hand weakness.
5. Degenerative Disc Disease
Worn-out discs causing chronic neck pain.
6. Cervical Trauma or Fracture
Stabilization after injury.
Advantages of Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery
Choosing anterior cervical surgery offers several benefits:
✔ Direct access to the disc
✔ Better nerve decompression
✔ Less muscle damage
✔ Reduced blood loss
✔ Shorter hospital stay
✔ Faster recovery
✔ Minimal scarring
✔ High success rate
With expert surgical technique, patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility.
How the Procedure Is Performed
Step 1: Anesthesia
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
Step 2: Small Incision
A small horizontal incision is made in the front of the neck.
Step 3: Disc Removal
The damaged disc is carefully removed to relieve nerve pressure.
Step 4: Decompression
Bone spurs or compressive structures are removed.
Step 5: Fusion or Disc Replacement
In fusion surgery, a bone graft and plate are inserted.
In disc replacement, an artificial disc is implanted.
Step 6: Closure
The incision is closed with minimal sutures.
The surgery typically takes 1–2 hours depending on complexity.
Recovery After Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery
Recovery is usually smooth and quicker than many patients expect.
Immediately After Surgery
Patients can often walk within hours.
Mild throat discomfort may occur.
Hospital stay: 1–2 days (sometimes same-day discharge).
First 2 Weeks
Gradual return to light activities.
Neck collar may be advised.
4–6 Weeks
Resume office work (depending on job type).
Physiotherapy begins if required.
3 Months
Most patients return to normal daily activities.
Full fusion (in ACDF) may take 3–6 months.
Success Rate of ACDF Surgery
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) has a high success rate:
85–95% relief from arm pain
Significant improvement in weakness and numbness
Improved quality of life
Long-term spinal stability
Outcomes depend on:
Severity of compression
Duration of symptoms
Overall health
Surgeon expertise
With Dr. Alok Gadkari’s precision and experience, patients receive comprehensive and personalized care.
Cervical Disc Replacement vs Fusion
In selected patients, disc replacement may be an alternative to fusion.
Cervical Fusion (ACDF)
Stabilizes the spine
Very reliable
Long-term proven results
Cervical Disc Replacement
Preserves motion
Reduces adjacent level stress
Suitable for selected cases
Your spine condition determines the best approach.
Diagnosis and Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Before surgery, detailed investigations are performed:
MRI of cervical spine
X-rays (dynamic views)
CT scan (if required)
Neurological examination
Blood tests
This ensures accurate diagnosis and surgical planning.
Prevention of Cervical Spine Problems
To maintain cervical spine health:
✔ Maintain correct posture
✔ Avoid prolonged mobile usage
✔ Strengthen neck muscles
✔ Use ergonomic workstation setup
✔ Avoid sudden jerks
✔ Exercise regularly
Prevention reduces the risk of future spine issues.
Advanced Spine Care with Precision and Compassion
Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery is a safe, effective, and reliable procedure for treating cervical disc and nerve compression problems. With modern techniques and expert surgical skill, patients can achieve lasting pain relief and spinal stability.
Under the expert care of Dr. Alok Gadkari, patients receive comprehensive spine treatment using evidence-based methods, modern surgical technology, and personalized attention.
If neck pain or arm symptoms are affecting your daily life, schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a pain-free future.