What Is Cervical Fusion?

When someone has been the victim of an accident caused by another's negligence, neck injuries are common results. The neck is, in many ways, very vulnerable to injury, particularly in car accidents. If the victim suffers long-term, debilitating pain from a neck injury, doctors may recommend a cervical fusion operation to stabilize the neck and help ease the pain. If you have been advised to have cervical fusion surgery , it is important to speak to an auto accident lawyer in Alaska before agreeing to the procedure.

Cervical fusion typically involves fusing vertebral bones together in combination with a discectomy, or removal of the affected disks. The medical term for this surgery is an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, or ACDF. The fusion is done in the hope that removing the disk and connecting the two spinal segments will stabilize the neck and prevent future pain from disk herniation or other trauma.

While this sounds promising in theory, ACDF often results in further pain and loss of mobility, particularly when it is performed on the neck vertebrae. It is critical that any victim of an accident who is considering ACDF surgery should consult an experienced injury attorney in Alaska prior to agreeing to this procedure.

Not only is it important to protect your rights and ensure that you have a valid second opinion on your case if warranted, but you should also consider the costs associated with ACDF. Not only will you have extensive medical bills, but you may also lose time at work or face permanent loss of mobility which could impact your future income.

At Barber & Associates, we offer you the assistance of a personal injury lawyer in Alaska who is experienced in handling ACDF cases. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you.