What is the main difference between cervical disc replacement and ACDF?

The main difference is motion preservation. Cervical disc replacement maintains natural neck movement with an artificial disc, while ACDF fuses vertebrae together, eliminating motion at that level but providing excellent stability.

Who is a good candidate for cervical disc replacement?

Good candidates are typically under 60, have single-level disease, good bone quality, no significant arthritis, and want to maintain neck motion. ACDF may be better for older patients or those with multi-level disease.

Which procedure has better long-term outcomes?

Both procedures have excellent long-term outcomes with over 90% success rates. CDR may reduce adjacent segment disease risk, while ACDF has longer track record and works well for complex cases.

Cervical Disc Replacement vs ACDF: A Surgeon's Comprehensive Guide

Quick Answer

This comprehensive guide by Dr. Greenberg at Greenberg Spine in Fort Wayne covers every dimension of the CDR vs ACDF decision: anatomy, candidacy criteria, evidence on adjacent segment disease, recovery differences, and long-term outcomes. Both procedures relieve nerve compression effectively; the key difference is that CDR preserves motion while ACDF fuses the level. Facet joint health is the primary determinant of which procedure is appropriate.

Compare motion preservation with disc replacement to traditional fusion—indications, recovery, risks, and candidacy.

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Cervical Disc Replacement vs ACDF: A Surgeon's Comprehensive Guide

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