Minimally Invasive
Cervical Spinal Fusion

What is ACDF, and how is it performed?

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What Is a Minimally Invasive Cervical Fusion (ACDF)?

A minimally invasive cervical fusion is also commonly referred to as an ACDF and is used to treat chronic pain, nerve compression, and/or instability that originates in the cervical spine. This procedure is typically recommended when cervical spine conditions do not respond to conservative treatment options.

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About Minimally Invasive Cervical Fusion


Although ACDF’s were historically performed with an open incision, at OrthoNeuro our advanced technology and training allow most ACDF’s to be performed in a minimally invasive fashion. This means a much smaller incision is used, less surgical trauma occurs and recovery time is shortened. 

The Board Certified Spine Specialists at OrthoNeuro are experts in minimally invasive cervical spinal fusion and have helped thousands of patients return to an active and healthy lifestyle following this procedure.

How Is a Minimally Invasive Cervical Fusion (ACDF) Performed at OrthoNeuro?

At OrthoNeuro, an ACDF may be performed as either an inpatient or outpatient procedure based on your Spine Surgeons recommendation.

If the procedure is performed on an inpatient basis, the hospital stay is usually only 1-2 days.

During an ACDF procedure:


  1. Incision: A small 1-2 inch incision is made in the front or back of the neck (depending upon your specific condition).
  2. Exposure: Muscles are gently retracted so the cervical spine can be viewed.
  3. Discectomy: Tiny instruments are used to carefully remove the damaged disc.
  4. Implant insertion: A bone graft-packed spacer is inserted between adjacent vertebrae. 
  5. Fusion: Small rods and/or plates and screws are used to fixate adjacent vertebrae.

Using our advanced minimally invasive techniques, there is very little surgical trauma and you are able to recover and return to normal activities shortly after surgery.

Make an Appointment with an OrthoNeuro Spine Surgeon Today!

If you have been considering a minimally invasive cervical spinal fusion, schedule an appointment with one of our Board Certified Spine Specialists at one of our 7 convenient locations throughout Greater Columbus. 

We will evaluate your unique lifestyle and goals to determine which type of treatment is best for you. 

Spine Care Specialists

If you live with chronic back or neck pain, contact OrthoNeuro in Columbus, Ohio, for state-of-the-art diagnosis and personalized spine care treatment plans to heal your spine, relieve your pain, and help you get back to your regular activities.

Ying H. Chen, DO, FACOS

Neurosurgeon

Paul H. Eichenseer, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

David K. Kim, MD

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Donald J. Rohl, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Larry Todd, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Mark A. White, DO

Neurosurgeon

Daniel P. Pap, MD

Interventional Pain Specialist

Siddharth Shetgeri, DO

Neurosurgeon

Dustin Reynolds, M.D.

Interventional Pain Management Specialist

My experience is always very pleasant from the time I enter the door until I leave, they make me feel comfortable and welcomed.

Paula F.

Patient