ACDF Surgery
Post-Operative Recovery Guide
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Comprehensive recovery instructions, collar care, and fusion healing timeline
Recovery Overview
ACDF surgery removes damaged cervical disc material and fuses vertebrae together to eliminate painful motion and decompress nerves. Your recovery focuses on fusion healing, collar compliance, and gradual return to activities.
Hospital Stay
Same-day or overnight stay for most single-level procedures
Collar Use
6-12 weeks depending on fusion progress and Dr. Greenberg's assessment
Return to Work
2-4 weeks for desk work, 8-12 weeks for physical labor
Fusion Complete
6-12 months for solid fusion, confirmed by X-rays and CT
Recovery Timeline
Surgery Day
- Collar fitted before discharge
- Walking encouraged same day
- Soft diet initially, advance as tolerated
- Pain management with prescribed medications
Early Recovery
- Wear collar at all times except showering
- No lifting over 10 pounds
- Short walks multiple times daily
- First follow-up appointment with X-rays
Progressive Activity
- Continue collar use as directed
- Return to desk work possible
- Gradual increase in daily activities
- Follow-up X-rays to assess fusion progress
Fusion Healing
- Collar discontinued when fusion shows progress
- Physical therapy may begin
- Return to most normal activities
- CT scan at 6-12 months to confirm solid fusion
Cervical Collar Care
- Wear collar 24/7 except when showering (unless instructed otherwise)
- Keep collar clean and dry; wash liner regularly
- Check skin daily for irritation or pressure sores
- Do not remove collar to drive or perform activities
- Collar protects fusion site during critical healing period
Activity Restrictions
Avoid These Activities
- No lifting over 10 lbs for first 6 weeks
- No driving while wearing collar or taking narcotics
- No bending, twisting, or reaching overhead
- No contact sports or high-impact activities
- No smoking (impairs fusion healing)
Encouraged Activities
- Walking multiple times daily
- Light household activities as tolerated
- Proper nutrition and hydration
- Adequate rest and sleep
- Following all medication schedules
Keys to Successful Fusion
- Collar compliance: Wear as directed to protect fusion site
- No smoking: Nicotine significantly impairs bone healing
- Nutrition: Adequate protein and calcium support fusion
- Follow-up visits: Keep all appointments for X-ray monitoring
- Activity restrictions: Protect fusion during critical healing period
When to Seek Immediate Care
Contact our office immediately or go to the emergency room if you experience:
- Severe, uncontrolled pain despite medication
- New or worsening weakness in arms or hands
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Severe hoarseness lasting more than 2 weeks
- Signs of infection (fever >101.5°F, wound drainage, increasing neck swelling)
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Related Resources
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes and supplements your personalized instructions from Dr. Greenberg. Always follow the specific guidance provided during your consultation and follow-up visits. Individual recovery timelines may vary.