Cervical ACDF — Cervical Fusion (Anterior and Posterior)

Ortho Illinois / Rockford Orthopedic Spine Care · Dr. Issada Thongtrangan MD; Dr. Brian Braaksma MD

Weight-Bearing

WBAT from POD 1; gait with AD if necessary; walking to 30 min or ½ mile daily

Key Restrictions

Anterior fusion: avoid extension; Posterior fusion: avoid flexion; no lifting >5 lbs x 4 wks; no overhead lifting; soft collar 1-level x 2 wks, 2-levels x 2-4 wks, 3+ levels hard collar x 6 wks; no bridging Phase II; nerve glides no reproduction of symptoms

Timeline & Phases

4 phases: Phase I (0-4 wks), Phase II (4-8 wks), Phase III (8-12 wks), Phase IV (12+ wks)

Notes

Covers both anterior and posterior cervical fusion with approach-specific precautions; Phase III: pressure biofeedback for longus colli (20-28-30 mmHg, 10 sec hold x 10-20 reps); modified plank from knees; OA joint mobs; lifting to 25 lbs by Phase III; Phase IV: jogging/running, return to work with ergonomics/FCE if needed; October 2014

Surgeon / Author

Dr. Issada Thongtrangan MD; Dr. Brian Braaksma MD

Published

October 2014