- Spine
- Cervical Stenosis
- Herniated Discs
- Myeloplathy
- Spondylolisthesis
- Cervical Fractures
- Neck Strains & Sprains
- Sports-Related Spine Injuries
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF)
- Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF)
- Cervical Laminectomy & Fusion
- Kyphoplasty
- Minimally Invasive Microdiscectomy
- Laminectomy / Hemilaminectomy
- Posterior Spinal Fusion
- Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
- Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF)
- Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)
What Is Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF)?
Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) is a surgical procedure used to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves in the cervical spine. During this procedure, the surgeon removes part or all of a vertebral body along with adjacent discs to decompress the spinal cord. The space created is then stabilized using a bone graft or implant, followed by fusion of the surrounding vertebrae.
ACCF is typically recommended when spinal cord compression involves multiple levels of the cervical spine or when more extensive decompression is needed than can be achieved with a standard discectomy. The procedure helps restore spinal alignment, relieve neurological symptoms, and provide long-term stability.
Conditions Treated with ACCF
ACCF may be recommended for several cervical spine conditions, including:
- Cervical myelopathy
- Cervical spinal stenosis
- Multi-level disc herniations
- Degenerative disc disease
- Bone spurs compressing the spinal cord
- Cervical spine fractures
- Tumors affecting the cervical spine
- Spinal cord compression
These conditions may cause progressive neurological symptoms that require surgical decompression.
Symptoms Treated with ACCF
Patients who require ACCF may experience:
- Neck pain
- Arm pain or weakness
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty with balance
- Hand clumsiness
- Progressive neurological symptoms
- Difficulty walking
These symptoms occur when the spinal cord becomes compressed in the cervical spine.
How ACCF Is Diagnosed
Before recommending ACCF, your orthopedic spine specialist will perform a comprehensive evaluation. Diagnostic testing may include:
- Physical and neurological examination
- X-rays to evaluate alignment
- MRI to assess spinal cord compression
- CT scan for detailed bone imaging
- Additional neurological testing when necessary
Surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatment does not relieve symptoms or when neurological function is at risk.
Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical care may be attempted in select cases, depending on severity. Conservative treatment may include:
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- Pain management injections
- Cervical bracing
However, ACCF is typically recommended when symptoms are progressive or significant spinal cord compression is present.
Surgical Treatment
During ACCF surgery:
- An incision is made in the front of the neck
- One or more vertebral bodies are removed
- Pressure is relieved from the spinal cord
- A bone graft or implant is placed
- The spine is stabilized and fused
- Plates or screws may be used for support
This procedure allows for extensive decompression and stabilization of the cervical spine.
Recovery After ACCF Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the number of levels treated and overall health. Many patients experience improvement in neurological symptoms following surgery. Initial recovery typically occurs over several weeks, while full fusion may take several months.
Physical therapy is often recommended to restore mobility and strength. Patients are typically advised to limit heavy lifting and strenuous activity during the early recovery period.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
You should seek evaluation if you experience:
- Progressive weakness
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty walking
- Persistent neck pain
- Numbness or tingling in arms
- Balance problems
- Worsening neurological symptoms
Prompt evaluation helps prevent permanent spinal cord damage.
Why Choose TMI Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Surgery
TMI provides comprehensive cervical spine care, including advanced imaging, conservative treatment, and complex procedures such as anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion when necessary. Our spine specialists focus on relieving spinal cord compression, restoring stability, and improving neurological function.
