Expert Cervical Spine Surgery by Dr. Rajesh Bindal at Texas Spine & Neurosurgery
What Is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)?
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a specialized neurosurgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis in the cervical spine. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as:
- Neck and arm pain
- Weakness or numbness
- Tingling sensations
- Balance issues
- Difficulty walking
When conservative treatments fail, Dr. Rajesh Bindal, a board-certified neurosurgeon at Texas Spine & Neurosurgery in Sugar Land, TX, may recommend ACDF as the most effective solution.
How the ACDF Procedure Is Performed
Dr. Bindal performs ACDF using a minimally invasive anterior (front of neck) approach:
- A horizontal incision is made, often along a natural skin crease to minimize scarring.
- The soft tissues are carefully separated to expose the front of the cervical spine, navigating between the trachea and esophagus on one side and the carotid artery on the other.
- Once the affected spinal disc is located and verified using intraoperative X-ray, Dr. Bindal removes the disc using microsurgical tools such as surgical drills, fine knives, and biting instruments.
- Any bone spurs or ligament tissue pressing on the spinal cord or nerves are also removed.
This anterior approach allows for precise decompression with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue, improving safety and outcomes.
Stabilization and Fusion
After decompression is complete:
- A bone graft is placed in the space where the disc was removed to restore height and promote fusion.
- A titanium plate is secured over the vertebrae using bone screws to stabilize the spine.
- The incision is closed with absorbable sutures that do not need to be removed later.
Most patients are able to go home the day after surgery. Dr. Bindal provides comprehensive post-op care and follow-up to support optimal healing and long-term spine health.
Recovery and Outcomes
Many patients report rapid relief of arm pain shortly after surgery. While numbness, balance issues, or weakness may take additional time to improve, most patients ultimately regain better mobility and experience less neck stiffness than before surgery—thanks to the removal of pressure on the nerves and joints.
Artificial Disc Replacement Option
In some cases, Dr. Bindal may determine that a patient is a good candidate for artificial disc replacement rather than fusion. This newer technology preserves more natural motion in the spine but is only appropriate for select individuals. During your consultation, Dr. Bindal will review your imaging, symptoms, and overall spine health to determine if this option suits your specific condition.
Schedule Your Consultation in Sugar Land, TX
If you’re experiencing chronic neck pain, numbness, or other spinal symptoms, trust Dr. Rajesh Bindal at Texas Spine & Neurosurgery in Sugar Land, TX, for expert diagnosis and personalized treatment. With his advanced training in minimally invasive spine techniques, Dr. Bindal provides exceptional care tailored to your needs.
Call today to schedule your consultation and find out if ACDF surgery is right for you.