Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: Techniques, complications, and future directives

Abstract

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is a well-established surgical intervention for a wide range of degenerative cervical spine pathology, including myelopathy and radiculopathy. Despite the emergence of technical advances including cervical disk arthroplasty, evidence continues to support use of anterior cervical fusion given its effectiveness and safety. Research continues to advance anterior cervical fusion with the development of patient-specific implants and hybrid arthroplasty-fusion surgical approaches. This review summarizes the indications, surgical approach, outcomes, and complications of anterior cervical fusion and offers perspective on future areas of research within the context of newer motion-preserving alternatives, including cervical disk arthroplasty.