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Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) Video

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Anterior cervical discectomy with fusion, or ACDF, is a surgery designed to relieve spinal cord or nerve root pressure in the neck by removing all or part of a damaged disc. This procedure starts with a one- to two-inch incision in the front of the neck. The thin layer of platysma muscle that lies under the skin is cut and moved aside. The pre-vertebral fascia, a thin layer of fibrous tissue that encases the spine, is dissected away, exposing the intervertebral disc.

The surgeon confirms that the correct disc has been located by inserting a needle into the disc space under X-ray guidance. An incision is made in the outer coating of the disc, called the annulus fibrosus, and the soft inner core of the disc, called the nucleus pulposus, is removed. Most of the damaged disc is extracted, but a small portion may be left intact.

Next, the surgeon examines the posterior longitudinal ligament. The ligament may be removed to access the spinal canal so the surgeon can remove any bone spurs or disc material that may have extruded through the ligament.

Next, the anterior cervical fusion is performed, in which a bone graft or a cage is inserted into the space where the disc used to be.

This procedure serves to prevent the disc space from collapsing and allows the bone to grow together to set up a bony bridge, or fusion, between the upper and lower vertebrae. A small metal plate is typically affixed to the front of the upper and lower vertebrae to provide stability while the bone fusion heals together, a process that can take up to 18 months.

Patients typically can go home on the same day as the surgery, or after one overnight stay in the hospital.

Republished from NuVasive.

Contact us to learn more. 

How to Drape a Surgical Microscope

Posted on by American Surgical

Check out the video below to see a great technique for applying sterile Leica drapes to surgical microscopes.

American Surgical Products offers a complete selection of disposable Leica Drapes to help create the sterile environment necessary for better patient outcomes. Our drapes allow non-sterile equipment to be brought into the sterile field while protecting patients from infection.

We stock the following surgical microscope drapes at distribution locations around the country to ensure availability and on-time delivery: Surgical Equipment Drapes

With the launch of our online store in 2019, you may now order sterile drapes for Leica microscopes via credit card or on credit with a valid purchase order number. This supply opportunity may benefit your facility if you require on-time delivery, free trials, and attractive pricing. To learn more, visit the links below:

Distraction Screws: Instructions for use

Posted on by American Surgical

Download a PDF version of this IFU for cervical distraction screws here: ASP Distraction Screw IFU (~44KB PDF File)

Product Description: Distraction Screws

The ASP Distraction Screws are available in three screw lengths (12mm, 14mm, and 16mm) and are supplied sterile, 1 screw per pouch and 5 pouches per box. REF #’s are: ASP12S (12mm Screws), ASP14S (14mm Screws), and ASP16S (16mm Screws). The ASP Distraction Screws are intended for the distraction in the anterior approach to the cervical spine from C2 thru C7. Product is intended to be used by trained surgeons and is designed for use with compatible distractors and screwdrivers.

Instructions for Use

  1. Inspect package prior to use and do not use if the package is damaged or sterility has been compromised.
  2. Select the desired length of distraction screw. The length should be chosen based on patient anatomy and surgeon experience.
  3. Start with a pilot hole using the Twist Drill or the Twist Drill with handle.
  4. Drill through the Drill Guide.
  5. Using the Distraction Screw Driver screw the distraction screw thru the drill guide until two fingers tighten or until screw is fully seated.
  6. Repeat steps 1 thru 4 for the placement of the 2nd screw.
  7. Remove the screwdriver and drill guide.
  8. The above procedure ensures parallel placement of the distraction screws. Do not bend the pins after insertion as this may cause failure of the screw!
  9. Place appropriate distractor over the distraction screws and open as required.
  10. Remove distraction screws after use with the Distraction Screw Driver.
  11. Dispose of the distraction screw in an approved sharps container.
  12. If needed, the screw or any fragment thereof can be located by means of an X-Ray.

Warnings/Precautions

  1. CAUTION: US Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
  2. Do not reuse. Reuse may compromise the structural integrity of the device and/or lead to device failure. Reuse also presents biological hazards associated with disease transmission and immune/allergy issues, some of which could cause severe illness or be fatal.
  3. Do not bend the pins after insertion as this may cause failure of the screw.
  4. The decision to use Distraction Screws is based upon suitability of patient bone condition.

Company Information

For more information on this product or any products mentioned in this IFU please contact:
American Surgical Products (ASP)
7491 N Federal Hwy. Ste C5125
Boca Raton, FL, 33487
P: 1-866-573-7774
F: 1-800-801-5975