Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion in Hollywood, FL

Find relief from persistent neck pain with expert ACDF care designed to stabilize your spine and restore comfort—so you can move forward with confidence.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF) Precision Spine Surgery in Hollywood, FL

If you’re living with chronic neck pain, arm numbness, or symptoms stemming from disc-related issues, you may be a candidate for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). This advanced procedure is often used to treat degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and spinal nerve compression in the cervical spine. At Core Alliance, Dr. Aron Rovner brings decades of experience performing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in Hollywood, FL, using the latest surgical techniques to promote healing and minimize recovery time.

Our mission is to relieve your pain, restore your neck function, and help you reclaim your quality of life. Below, we’ll walk through how ACDF works, when it’s recommended, what recovery entails, and why patients from across South Florida trust Dr. Rovner and our team for their care.

What Is Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerves caused by disc herniation or spinal degeneration. The term “anterior” refers to the front of the neck, where the incision is made. After removing the damaged disc, a bone graft is inserted to allow two vertebrae to fuse together over time—creating stability and relieving nerve compression.

Why You Might Need ACDF Surgery

Patients typically consider anterior cervical discectomy in Hollywood, FL, for the following conditions:

Herniated Discs: When a disc slips out of place and presses on nearby nerves, causing pain, weakness, or numbness in the neck, shoulders, or arms.
Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear-and-tear on the discs over time that leads to instability and chronic pain.
Spinal Stenosis or Compression: When narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Failed Conservative Treatments: If non-surgical therapies like physical therapy, medications, or injections have not provided lasting relief.

Dr. Rovner explores all non-operative options first. If ACDF becomes necessary, it’s typically because symptoms are severe, progressive, or limiting your ability to function.

How the ACDF Procedure Works

When undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in Hollywood, FL, you can expect the following:

Accessing the Spine: A small incision is made at the front of the neck to reach the affected disc space.
Disc Removal: The herniated or damaged disc is carefully removed to decompress the spinal cord or nerves.
Bone Graft Placement: A graft (either from your body or a donor) is inserted into the disc space to encourage fusion.
Stabilization: A titanium plate and screws may be used to hold the vertebrae in place while the fusion heals.

Minimally invasive techniques are often used to reduce trauma to surrounding tissues and support faster recovery.

ACDF Recovery Time

Initial recovery from ACDF surgery typically spans four to six weeks, although healing times vary based on your health and the extent of surgery. Most patients experience rapid relief from nerve-related symptoms and gradually return to normal activities under Dr. Rovner’s guidance.

Pain around the incision and stiffness are common in the early days, but they tend to resolve with time and physical therapy.

Activities to Avoid After Surgery

To ensure a safe and smooth recovery, patients should avoid the following:

Neck Bending or Twisting: Limit sudden or excessive neck movements, especially in the early weeks.
Heavy Lifting: Don’t lift objects over 5 to 10 pounds until cleared by your surgeon.
Driving: Refrain from driving while on narcotic pain medication or until you regain full range of motion.

Following post-op instructions closely is key to successful healing after your anterior cervical discectomy in Hollywood, FL.

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Possible Risks of ACDF Surgery

Although ACDF is considered safe and highly effective, like all surgeries, it carries some risk:

Infection or bleeding at the incision site
Nerve injury
Temporary difficulty swallowing
Hardware complications
Failure of the bone graft to fuse properly (non-union)

Dr. Rovner discusses all risks and answers your questions during your consultation to ensure you're making a fully informed decision.

How Successful Is ACDF Surgery?

The success rate for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is high, with 85–90% of patients experiencing lasting symptom relief and restored function. Most return to their normal routines within a few months, often with improved comfort and range of motion compared to their pre-surgery condition.

Considerations and Potential Disadvantages

Every procedure has trade-offs. Possible disadvantages of ACDF may include:

Adjacent Segment Disease: Added stress on nearby discs after fusion can sometimes cause degeneration down the line.
Reduced Mobility: Though typically minimal, some loss of motion may occur at the fused segment.
Scar Tissue: In rare cases, scar tissue around the fusion site can irritate nerves.

These considerations are carefully weighed during your personalized surgical planning process.

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Cost of Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

The cost of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in Hollywood, FL, depends on several variables:

Hospital and facility fees
Anesthesia and imaging costs
Your insurance coverage

Core Alliance works with PPO-insured patients as an out-of-network provider, and many patients are eligible for partial reimbursement. Our team can walk you through the process during your initial visit.

Schedule a Consultation for ACDF in Hollywood, FL

At Core Alliance, we specialize in conservative and surgical care for neck and spine conditions—including expert anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in Hollywood, FL. Dr. Aron Rovner brings 20+ years of experience, cutting-edge techniques, and a deep commitment to patient-centered care.

If you’re ready to find relief and restore your quality of life, schedule your consultation today. We’ll help you understand your options and guide you toward the right solution.

Why Choose Core Alliance?

Choosing the right spine surgeon matters. At Core Alliance, your care is led by Dr. Aron Rovner, a board-certified, fellowship-trained spine expert with a deep understanding of both conservative care and minimally invasive surgical techniques. With locations in Hollywood, FL, and across the East Coast, we provide personalized support, fast access to care, and long-term solutions to help you live pain-free. Your journey to relief starts here. Schedule your consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions ACDF Surgery

What is anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)?

It’s a surgical procedure used to treat herniated discs and nerve compression in the neck. The damaged disc is removed, and two vertebrae are fused together to stabilize the spine.

How long does it take to recover from ACDF surgery?

Most patients recover within 4 to 6 weeks for basic activity, though full fusion and healing can take a few months.

Will I experience pain after ACDF?

Some soreness or stiffness is expected early on, but pain is typically manageable and improves significantly as healing progresses.

Is this surgery done under general anesthesia?

Yes, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is performed under general anesthesia for your safety and comfort.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to ACDF?

Yes—physical therapy, epidural injections, and medication may be considered first. ACDF is generally recommended when these options are no longer effective.

Will the fusion limit my neck motion?

There may be some reduction in movement at the fused segment, but most patients retain a normal range of motion and function.

Does insurance cover ACDF surgery?

In many cases, yes. Core Alliance is out-of-network but works with PPO-insured patients who may qualify for partial reimbursement.