Cervical disc surgery in Turkey offers advanced medical solutions for conditions affecting the cervical spine, such as herniated or degenerative discs. Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) is a common procedure. This procedure involves removing the damaged disc in the neck, through an incision made in the throat area, and inserting a graft to fuse the bones above and below the disc. The graft serves as a bridge between the vertebrae, aiding in spinal stabilization.
What is Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF)?
Discs in a healthy spine are cushions between vertebrae, allowing for flexibility and movement. Over time, wear and tear can cause these discs to herniate or degenerate, leading to nerve compression. This can result in significant pain and functional impairments.
Artificial Disc Replacement
Artificial disc replacement (CDA) is an alternative to fusion that aims to preserve motion rather than eliminate it. Similar to joint replacement, the artificial disc is inserted into the damaged area, providing pain relief while maintaining neck mobility. This option may not be suitable for patients with facet joint arthritis or weak bones.
Candidate Eligibility
Candidates for cervical disc surgery typically have one or more of the following conditions:
- Herniated Disc: The centre of the disc bulges or ruptures through the outer wall, pressing on a nerve and causing pain and swelling.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Aging discs thin out, causing the vertebrae to rub and pinch nerves, leading to pain and potential spinal stenosis.
- Cervical Stenosis/Myelopathy: Narrowing of the spinal canal compresses the spinal cord, resulting in pain, weakness, and walking difficulties.
Surgical Decision-Making
Choosing to undergo ACDF or any cervical disc surgery involves a thorough evaluation by a qualified surgeon. The decision often hinges on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the patient’s overall health, and prior treatments.
Types of Bone Grafts
There are several options for bone grafts used in ACDF:
- Autograft: Bone taken from the patient’s own body, typically the hip.
- Allograft: Donor bone from a bone bank.
- Bone Marrow Aspirate (BMA): Bone marrow harvested from the patient, which contains bone-growing proteins.
- Cellular Bone Matrix: Organ donor bone containing stem cells.
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP): Used to stimulate bone growth.
Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, especially considering factors like the patient’s smoking habits and bone health.
Pre-Surgical Preparation for Cervical Disc Surgery in Turkey
Before undergoing cervical disc surgery in Turkey, patients need to undergo several preparatory steps:
- Medical History and Consent: Detailed review and consent forms.
- Presurgical Tests: Blood tests, electrocardiograms, and chest X-rays.
- Medication Adjustments: Stopping certain medications and lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, which can impede recovery.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of the surgery, patients are advised to follow specific guidelines, including fasting and adhering to hygiene protocols to reduce infection risks.
The Surgical Procedure
The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Patient Preparation: Anesthesia and positioning on the operating table.
- Incision: A precise incision is made to access the cervical spine.
- Disc Removal: The damaged disc is carefully removed.
- Nerve Decompression: Bone spurs and other obstructions are cleared to relieve nerve pressure.
- Bone Graft Fusion: The selected bone graft is inserted to promote fusion.
- Closure: The incision is sutured, and recovery begins.
Post-Surgical Recovery
Patients who undergo ACDF usually awaken in a recovery area where vital signs are monitored. Discomfort is managed, and patients are encouraged to move as soon as possible. Recovery includes:
- Follow-Up Appointments: Monitoring progress and checking the fusion.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to enhance neck mobility and overall function.
- Pain Management: Addressing discomfort from both the neck and any graft sites.
Preventing Recurrences
The long-term success of cervical disc surgery depends on preventive measures, including:
Cervical disc replacement surgery: indications, technique, and technical pearls
Maintaining appropriate exercise routines.
- Ensuring a healthy weight.
- Cultivating a positive attitude and utilizing relaxation techniques.
- Avoiding smoking to enhance bone healing and overall recovery.
Results of Cervical Disc Surgery in Turkey
ACDF has a high success rate in relieving arm pain, benefiting 92% to 100% of patients. However, arm weakness and numbness may persist for several weeks to months post-surgery. Relief from neck pain is achieved in 73% to 83% of cases. Significantly, patients with arm pain tend to benefit more from ACDF compared to those suffering predominantly from neck pain.
Successful spinal fusion depends on the technique and the patient’s health. Notably, studies indicate:
- 67% fusion rate with ACD alone.
- 93% fusion rate with ACDF using bone grafts.
- 100% fusion rate with ACDF supplemented by plates and screws.
Risks Associated with ACDF
As with any surgery, ACDF carries potential risks, such as:
- Hoarseness and Swallowing Difficulties: Temporary or, in rare cases, persistent due to nerve involvement.
- Non-fusion of Vertebrae: Factors such as smoking, osteoporosis, obesity, and malnutrition can hinder bone fusion.
- Hardware Fracture: Breakage or movement of plates and screws before complete fusion.
- Bone Graft Migration: The graft may shift from its intended position, necessitating further surgery.
- Adjacent Segment Disease: Stress transferred to adjacent vertebrae causing degeneration.
- Nerve Damage: Though rare, nerve damage can occur, leading to numbness or paralysis.
Why Opt for a Comprehensive Package in Istanbul, Turkey?
Cost-Efficiency
Turkey offers comprehensive medical packages that include a full spectrum of services for a transparent price, making high-quality healthcare more accessible.
Quality Care
Patients receive care from highly skilled, often internationally trained, medical professionals in state-of-the-art facilities.
Convenience
Arrangements are seamless, prioritizing patient comfort and ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Conclusion: Achieve Optimal Recovery at Avicenna International Hospital
If you are considering cervical disc surgery in Turkey, we invite you to explore the exceptional services offered at Avicenna International Hospital. Our expert medical team is dedicated to providing top-tier care and ensuring your journey to recovery is smooth and successful.
For further inquiries or to schedule a consultation, please get in touch with us. Your health and well-being are our top priorities.
The success rate for ACDF in Turkey is comparable to global standards, with arm pain relief achieved in 92% to 100% of patients and neck pain relief in 73% to 83% of cases.
The typical recovery period for cervical disc surgery is 4 to 6 weeks.
How painful is cervical disc surgery?
Cervical disc surgery does involve some post-operative pain, which is managed through medication and physical therapy. The level of pain can vary depending on the individual patient.
