ACDF Surgery (Neck Fusion) in Torrance, Long Beach & Los Angeles | Dr. Remi Ajiboye

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is one of the most commonly performed and effective spine surgeries for relieving nerve compression in the neck. Patients experiencing persistent neck pain, arm pain, numbness, or weakness often benefit from this procedure when conservative treatments fail.

Dr. Remi Ajiboye performs ACDF using modern, minimally disruptive techniques to improve outcomes and recovery for patients across Torrance, Long Beach, and Los Angeles County.

What Is ACDF?

ACDF stands for:

• Anterior (front of the neck approach)
• Cervical (neck region)
• Discectomy (removal of a damaged disc)
• Fusion (stabilization of the spine)

The procedure involves removing a problematic disc that is compressing a nerve or the spinal cord and replacing it with a spacer or bone graft. A small plate and screws are typically used to stabilize the spine and promote fusion.

Conditions Treated with ACDF

ACDF is commonly recommended for:

• Cervical disc herniation
• Cervical spinal stenosis
• Bone spurs (osteophytes)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Cervical radiculopathy (arm pain)
• Cervical myelopathy (spinal cord compression)

These conditions can cause significant pain and neurological symptoms if left untreated.

Symptoms That May Require ACDF

Patients treated by Dr. Remi Ajiboye often report:

• Neck pain that does not improve with therapy
• Arm pain radiating from the neck
• Numbness or tingling in the hands
• Weakness in the arms or grip
• Difficulty with coordination or balance

When symptoms worsen or affect daily activities, surgery may be recommended.

How the ACDF Procedure Is Performed

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia
2. A small incision is made in the front of the neck
3. The damaged disc and bone spurs are removed
4. A spacer or bone graft is placed
5. A plate and screws stabilize the spine

The anterior approach avoids cutting through major back muscles, allowing for faster recovery.

Benefits of ACDF

• Effective relief of arm pain
• Decompression of nerves and spinal cord
• Stabilization of the spine
• High success rates
• Long-term symptom improvement

Many patients experience rapid improvement in arm pain following surgery.

Recovery After ACDF

Immediately After Surgery

• Same-day discharge or overnight stay
• Walking encouraged early
• Mild throat soreness is common

Return to Activity

• Desk work: 2–4 weeks
• Light activity: 4–6 weeks
• Full activity: 8–12 weeks

Fusion typically develops over several months.

Risks and Considerations

While ACDF is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Temporary swallowing difficulty
• Hoarseness
• Nonunion (rare)

Dr. Remi Ajiboye carefully evaluates each patient to minimize risks and optimize outcomes.

Why Choose Dr. Remi Ajiboye?

Patients in Torrance and Long Beach choose Dr. Remi Ajiboye for:

• Expertise in cervical spine surgery
• Minimally invasive techniques
• Patient-centered care
• Excellent surgical outcomes

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing persistent neck or arm pain, ACDF may be an effective solution. Early evaluation can prevent worsening symptoms and improve recovery.

Remi M. Ajiboye M.D. is considered one of the best board-certified spine surgeons in Los Angeles who is trained in non-surgical and surgical management of spine conditions. He has advanced training in minimally-invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction. Dr Remi Ajiboye serves Torrance, El Segundo, Long Beach, and the surrounding communities of South Bay, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Lomita, San Pedro, Carson, Lawndale, Gardena, Hawthorne, Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, Culver City, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, South Gate, Lynwood, Compton, Los Alamitos, Westminster, Garden Grove, Lakewood, Cerritos, Bellflower, Downey, Paramount, Bellflower, Norwalk, Whittier, Santa Fe Springs, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Orange, Tustin, Fullerton, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and greater Los Angeles county and Orange County. Contact Remi Ajiboye, MD, online or over the phone to set up an appointment.

Author

Remi Ajiboye MD Remi M. Ajiboye M.D. is a spine specialist who is trained in non-surgical and surgical management of spine conditions. He has advanced training in minimally-invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction.