Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Complications and Thirty-Day Mortality and Morbidity

Background Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a commonly used procedure. However, few studies reported post-operative complications. This study looks into the prevalence of possible complications and the mortality rate in the first 30 days postoperatively. Methods A retrospective review of patients who underwent ACDF for degenerative disc disease from 2008-2017, in a single center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia was performed. Patient demographic data, comorbidities, operative notes, immediate and delayed complications were all collected, with a minimum of 30 days follow-up. Results Out of 434 medical charts reviewed, 163 met the inclusion criteria. Mean population age was 52 ± 11 years. Elective cases comprised 90% of sample and most patients had one or two levels operated on, 95% had ACDF and only 5% had corpectomy. The drain was left in 69% of patients and planned intensive care admission was done for 3%. Instrumentation and graft was used, with 92% needing a cage plus plate. Intraoperative complications were minimal. Mean hospital stay was 12.5 ±18 days. Majority of population had no complications in a 30 days period (98.2%). Only one case underwent revision surgery. Conclusions While ACDF is considered a safe procedure, postoperative complications may have long-term implications. This study showed minimal complications in the immediate postoperative period, but due to the limited sample size, a study with larger population is needed to further confirm the results.