What is the difference between ACDF and ACCF?
ACDF removes just the disc, while ACCF (Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion) removes the disc and the vertebral bone. ACCF is used when spinal cord compression extends behind the bone itself.
Treatment/Treatment Details
Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion
Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion removes entire vertebral bodies to decompress the spinal cord from bone spurs, tumors, or fractures.
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Reconstructing the Cervical Spine
Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF) is a more extensive procedure than a standard ACDF Surgery. It involves the removal of the entire vertebral body (the bone itself) and the discs above and below it. This is necessary when Spinal Stenosis is caused by bone spurs behind the vertebral body, or in cases of Spinal Compression Fractures and tumors. After removing the bone to decompress the spinal cord, a cage or strut graft is inserted to reconstruct the spine's column.
Explore Neck Conditions & Treatments
View all neck conditions and treatment options →When is ACCF Necessary?
- Patients with bone spurs compressing the spinal cord behind the vertebral body
- Individuals with cervical burst fractures from trauma
- Patients with OPLL (ossification) causing severe canal narrowing
- Those with spinal tumors destroying the vertebra
- Cases where multilevel Cervical Herniated Disc disease has collapsed the spine
What Conditions does Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion Help Ease?
This procedure may help with:
The Corpectomy Procedure
- An incision is made in the front of the neck (similar to ACDF)
- The trachea and esophagus are gently retracted to access the spine
- The discs above and below the damaged level are removed
- The central portion of the vertebral body is drilled away (corpectomy)
- This completely unroofs the spinal cord, removing all compression
- An expandable titanium cage or bone strut is inserted to replace the bone
- A metal plate and screws lock the construct in place
Benefits of Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion
- Directly removes compression that cannot be reached by discectomy
- Restores height and alignment to a collapsed neck
- Immediate protection for a compressed spinal cord
- High fusion rates due to the use of advanced cages and plating
- Treats complex pathology while preserving the posterior neck muscles
Recovery Expectations
Recovery Timeline: 6-12 Months for Full Fusion
Because ACCF involves removing a major structural bone, recovery is careful. Hospital stay is 2-4 days. A cervical collar is mandatory for 6-12 weeks to support the reconstruction. Swallowing may be temporarily difficult (dysphagia) but resolves. Nerve relief is often immediate. Bone fusion takes time, but patients can usually return to desk work in 4-6 weeks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is cervical corpectomy dangerous?
While it is a higher-risk procedure than ACDF due to the extent of bone removal, it is highly effective for preventing paralysis in patients with severe cervical myelopathy. Intraoperative monitoring makes it safer.
Do I need a plate for corpectomy?
Yes, a metal plate is screwed into the vertebrae above and below the removed bone to hold the graft or cage in place. This provides immediate stability for the cervical spine.
How long is the hospital stay?
The stay is typically 2 to 4 days. Swallowing difficulty (dysphagia) is a common temporary side effect that is monitored closely before discharge.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Neck pain, arm pain, or neurological symptoms from spinal cord compression affecting daily life? Start your recovery with expert orthopedic care. Schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics.
Locations Offering Evaluation
Our board-certified specialists offer anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.
