How long does it take to recover from neck fusion surgery?
It may take 4 to 6 weeks to get back to your usual activities. How long it takes depends on what kind of surgery you had. Your doctor may advise you to work with a physiotherapist to strengthen the muscles around your neck and back.
What is anterior cervical decompression and fusion?
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgery to remove a herniated or degenerative disc in the neck. An incision is made in the throat area to reach and remove the disc. A graft is inserted to fuse together the bones above and below the disc.
How painful is cervical fusion?
Some amount of neck discomfort, soreness, tenderness, and swelling is normal after a spinal fusion procedure. Additionally, you may feel some discomfort in your upper back and shoulders as your body adjusts to the altered biomechanics created by the fusion.
What are the side effects of cervical fusion?
But the most popular benefit of cervical fusion is that it’s a long-term solution for relieving pain and other symptoms. Pain, weakness, numbness and tingling are all common side effects of cervical spinal problems. Cervical fusion surgery is designed to eliminate these problems.
What is recovery like from cervical fusion?
Recovery from cervical fusion depends on a number of factors. As mentioned, the surgery is considered a success when the symptoms are improved, and the bone has healed across the fused vertebrae. This fusion process usually takes two to three months.
What is the recovery time for cervical spine surgery?
Patients typically go home after an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion after one night in the hospital. Most patients recover within about 4 to 12 weeks, although it may take up to 18 months for the fusion to fully set up.
What to expect after anterior cervical fusion surgery?
After anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery (a surgery to treat damaged or worn discs in your neck): You will wake up from surgery in a recovery area of the hospital. A nurse will monitor your vital signs until you are ready to leave the area. You may have a sore throat and difficulty swallowing for a few days.