What does ACF mean in BRITISH MEDICINE

Anterior cervical fusion is a type of surgery used to treat neck pain caused by spinal trauma, degenerative spine conditions, or spinal instability. It involves fusing two or more vertebrae in the cervical spine of the neck using bone grafts and plates, screws, rods and cages.

ACF may be recommended for people who have severe neck or arm pain due to herniated discs in their necks that are not responding to non-surgical treatments like physical therapy and medications. Surgery may also be recommended for those with fractures in their vertebrae and some types of deformities.

As with any type of surgery there are potential risks associated with ACF including infection at the surgical site and damage to adjacent structures such as nerves causing numbness or weakness. Other risks include failure of the bones to fuse, instability at the surgical site which can lead to further weakening of the spine and require additional surgery, nerve injuries resulting in ongoing pain, scar tissue formation and poor wound healing.

The recovery time after ACF depends on individual factors such as overall health status, other medical conditions present prior to surgery such as diabetes or obesity as well as lifestyle factors. Generally it takes up to 3 months for someone who has had ACF for a single level disc herniation before they can return to most daily activities without restrictions.

Yes it is important that activities that place strain on your neck such as lifting heavy objects be avoided until cleared by your doctor. In addition contact sports and activities like running are best avoided until full healing has occurred which may take 6 months post-surgery depending on individual circumstances.