A pinched nerve in the C3–C4 cervical spine occurs when the cervical disc is damaged or herniated, causing pressure on the surrounding nerves. This condition can lead to serious symptoms such as neck pain, numbness in the hands, and weakness in the arms and legs.
To address this condition, dr. Christian Ariono, Sp.BS-FTB, FINSS, FINPS, FICS, a neurosurgeon at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital, performed an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) procedure as a surgical solution for patients with severe nerve compression at the C3–C4 level.
The patient, Mr. Dilmar, came to Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital with complaints of weakness in both arms and legs due to severe nerve compression at the C3–C4 level. dr. Christian explained,
“We will perform an ACDF or Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion on this patient who is experiencing weakness in both arms and legs because the disc at C3–C4 is causing severe nerve compression.”
Two days after undergoing the ACDF procedure, Mr. Dilmar showed significant improvement. The numbness in his hands and the weakness in his arms and legs gradually improved.
“His legs can move again, his urination problem has been resolved, and his hands are strong. He is almost back to normal,” said Mr. Dilmar’s wife.
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What Is the ACDF Procedure for a C3–C4 Cervical Pinched Nerve?
ACDF surgery is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving pain caused by a pinched nerve in the neck. During this procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged cervical disc between the affected vertebrae and then fuses the vertebrae to provide better stability.
In addition to treating pinched nerves, ACDF surgery is also used to manage other cervical spine conditions, such as inflammation or degenerative joint disease, which can cause severe pain and interfere with daily activities.
General Steps of the ACDF Procedure
In general, the ACDF procedure performed by the doctor includes the following steps:
- The patient is given general anesthesia so they are fully asleep and feel no pain during the procedure.
- The surgeon makes a small incision of approximately 2–5 cm at the front of the neck, usually horizontally on one side. The airway and esophagus are gently moved aside to access the cervical spine.
- The damaged cervical disc and bone spurs that are compressing the nerves are removed. In certain cases, part of the front portion of the vertebral body may also be removed if necessary.
- After the pressure on the nerves is relieved, the surgeon performs spinal fusion by joining two or more cervical vertebrae. This process occurs gradually over time, similar to the healing of a fractured bone.
- A bone graft or a hollow metal ring implant filled with bone fragments is placed in the space where the disc was removed. Typically, the bone used comes from a bone bank (donor).
- To maintain spinal stability during the fusion process, metal plates and screws are installed at the front of the cervical spine.
- Once all structures are properly positioned, the incision is closed, and the ACDF procedure is completed.
Benefits of ACDF Surgery
The main benefit of ACDF surgery is reducing pain and nerve-related symptoms that can significantly decrease quality of life, such as neck pain, radiating arm pain, tingling sensations, and muscle weakness. By relieving pressure on the nerves, patients can return to their daily activities more comfortably.
Additionally, many patients experience a reduced need for pain medications after undergoing ACDF surgery. In some cases, following the recovery period, patients may no longer require routine pain medication at all.
Profile of dr. Christian Ariono, Neurosurgeon Expert in Treating Pinched Nerves
dr. Christian Ariono, Sp.BS, FICS is an experienced neurosurgeon specializing in the treatment of pinched nerves, particularly in the cervical spine and spinal column. He also has expertise in nerve tumor surgery, treatment of cerebral vascular disorders, and various other neurological conditions, including meningitis.
As a member of the Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) and the Indonesian Society of Neurosurgeons (PERSPEBSI), dr. Christian is proficient in a wide range of modern neurosurgical techniques, from arthrospine procedures to Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) for managing highly complex pinched nerve cases.
Practice Schedule at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
dr. Christian Ariono, Sp.BS, FICS is available for consultation at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital according to the following schedule:
- Monday: 08.00 – 16.00 WIB
- Tuesday: 08.00 – 12.00 WIB
- Wednesday: 08.00 – 16.00 WIB
- Thursday: 08.00 – 16.00 WIB
- Friday: 08.00 – 16.00 WIB
- Saturday: 08.00 – 16.00 WIB
To make your visit easier, you can use the WhatsApp Chat feature, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app, available for download on Google Play and the App Store, to manage appointments, view queue numbers, and access complete information.
