What to Know About ACDF at C5–C6 and C6–C7

Through an incision at the front of the neck, the surgeon removes each affected disc and clears pressure-producing material. A cage or graft maintains each disc space, and fixation may hold the construct steady while the vertebrae unite.

C5–C6 and C6–C7 are adjacent motion segments in the lower cervical spine. Treating both means that two discs are removed and three vertebrae are incorporated into one fused area. The decision should reflect symptoms and examination findings that correspond with compression seen at these levels, not the scan appearance alone.

A two-level construct changes movement across a larger portion of the neck than a single-level fusion. The surgeon weighs this against the need to create enough room for affected nerve roots or the spinal cord and to stabilize each treated space.

Review the exact target levels on the images with the surgeon and explain where pain, tingling, numbness, weakness, hand clumsiness, or walking changes occur. Share prior neck operations, swallowing or voice problems, nicotine use, allergies, and every medicine or supplement. Follow individualized directions about medicines and fasting.

For recovery, prepare easy-to-swallow foods if advised, place frequently used items within comfortable reach, and arrange transport. Walking is commonly used as gentle early activity, but lifting, driving, return to work, collar use, and formal therapy should follow the surgical team’s specific instructions.

Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, fast-growing swelling at the front of the neck, inability to handle saliva, or sudden major weakness after the operation. New loss of bladder or bowel control, marked walking difficulty, or rapidly worsening limb weakness also needs urgent assessment.

Notify the treating team without delay about wound drainage, spreading redness, fever, worsening hoarseness or swallowing, severe pain that is not controlled as expected, or a new change in arm sensation or strength. The team can determine whether an examination or imaging is needed.

Ask why both levels need treatment, what would remain compressed if only one were addressed, and whether another surgical approach is suitable. Discuss the cage or graft material, planned fixation, the effect on neck movement, expected milestones, and what symptoms may persist because a nerve or the spinal cord was already injured. Request clear written instructions for wound care, activity, medicines, and urgent contact.