At Impact Medical Group, we understand how debilitating neck and arm pain can be, primarily when it’s caused by a herniated disc or pinched nerve in the neck. These conditions often arise from age-related degeneration, repetitive strain, or a traumatic event like a car accident.
If non-surgical treatments haven’t relieved your symptoms, an anterior cervical discectomy may be the solution to help you regain comfort and mobility.
Below, we explain what this procedure is, who might be a good candidate, and what to expect before and after surgery.
What Is an Anterior Cervical Discectomy?
An anterior cervical discectomy is a type of spine surgery that removes a damaged or herniated disc from your neck (cervical spine). The term “anterior” means the surgeon accesses your spine through the front of your neck. After removing the disc, the space may be stabilized using a bone graft or implant, often called a fusion, to keep the spine stable and aligned.
This procedure is often performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots caused by a herniated disc or bone spurs, which can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands.
Who Is a Candidate for Anterior Cervical Discectomy?
You may be a good candidate for this procedure if you have sustained car accident injuries that have led to the following conditions:
- Neck pain that radiates to your shoulders, arms, or hands (also called radiculopathy).
- Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, show a herniated disc or bone spur pressing on a nerve or your spinal cord.
- Your symptoms have not improved after trying conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections.
- Your symptoms are affecting your ability to work, sleep, or perform daily activities.
- You are generally in good health and able to undergo surgery and recovery.
If you are experiencing significant weakness, difficulty walking, or loss of bladder or bowel control, surgery may be recommended more urgently.
What Happens Before Surgery?
Before your anterior cervical discectomy, our team at Impact Medical Group will guide you through several important steps to ensure you are fully prepared:
Medical Evaluation
We will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and order imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis and pinpoint the problem area in your spine.
Discussion of Risks & Benefits
We’ll explain the procedure in detail, answer your questions, and discuss the expected outcomes as well as possible risks.
Preoperative Instructions
You may be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, in the days leading up to surgery. We’ll also advise you on what to eat and drink the night before and morning of the procedure.
Plan for Recovery
Since you won’t be able to drive yourself home, you’ll need to arrange transportation and may want help at home during the first few days of recovery.
What Happens After Surgery?
After the procedure, you will spend some time in a recovery area while your medical team monitors you as the anesthesia wears off.
Many patients go home the same day, but some may need to stay overnight depending on individual circumstances.
Here’s what you can expect after surgery
Pain Management
It’s normal to experience some pain and soreness at the incision site and in your neck. We will provide medications and instructions to help manage your pain effectively.
Wearing a Collar
Your surgeon may recommend wearing a cervical collar for a period of time to support your neck as it heals.
Activity Restrictions
You should avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or bending your neck for several weeks. Walking and light activity are encouraged to promote circulation and healing.
Follow-Up Visits
We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, remove any stitches if necessary, and evaluate how your spine is healing.
Physical Therapy
Once your surgeon determines it’s safe, you may begin a physical therapy program to strengthen your neck and improve range of motion.
Most patients experience significant relief of their arm pain and improved quality of life after recovery. Full recovery may take several weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of the surgery and your overall health.
Learn More About Anterior Cervical Discectomy
If you’re living with neck and arm pain that hasn’t improved with conservative care, the team at Impact Medical Group is here to help. We are committed to providing personalized, compassionate care and guiding you every step of the way; before, during, and after your procedure.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if an anterior cervical discectomy is right for you.
