Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: A Two-Case Series and Literature Review on Management and Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a common surgical intervention for cervical spine pathologies, including disc herniation and spinal stenosis. Despite its efficacy, complications such as paraplegia can occur, often due to hematomas or iatrogenic injuries. Case Report: A 42-year-old man presented with persistent pain in his cervical spine radiating to his left arm, numbness in his fingers, and limited movement in his cervical spine. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a C6-C7 disc herniation and C5-C6 spinal canal stenosis. ACDF was performed at C6-C7 with a cage and bone autograft, achieving decompression and stabilization. A 47-year-old female patient presented via the emergency department complaining of severe, recurring pain in the cervical spine radiating to the right shoulder and scapula region and headaches. According to the patient, she has been suffering from severe pain, considered a real nuisance, for several months. MRI showed intervertebral disc herniation and foraminal stenosis at the C5-C6 vertebrae. Anterior microsurgical decompression and fusion with a cage were performed at C5-C6. Conclusion: ACDF effectively restores cervical alignment and dynamics in single-level cervical pathologies, with transient postoperative complications such as dysphagia resolving during recovery. It remains the preferred approach for anterior cervical disc herniation. © 2026 Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Published by Tehran University of Medical Sciences.