An anterior cervical discectomy is a procedure in which the disc in between two vertebrae in the neck is removed.

Anterior cervical discectomy is done through a small incision in the front or back of the neck. A fusion procedure or artificial disc replacement is performed after the disc is removed.

What conditions warrant anterior cervical discectomy?

The most common conditions that will require an anterior cervical discectomy for treatment are degenerative discs and herniated discs that are compressing the spinal nerves or spinal cord.

How long will I be in the hospital?

You will be in the hospital one to two days depending on the number of levels that were treated.

What is the recovery once I get home?

You will be in some pain from the surgery. Your physician will prescribe narcotic pain relievers while in the hospital and for about three months post-operatively.

Recovery time is typically four to six weeks. During this time you will follow the instructions given by your physician. These may include restrictions on specific movements and addressing the activities of your daily living.