Journal of Neurosurgery Study on Multi-level ACDFs in Outpatient Setting

A study of over 300 3-4 level anterior cervical discectomy and fusions performed over a five year period showed that the procedure is effective if patients are properly selected. The readmission rate was 1.2% for outpatient 3-4 level ACDFs included in the study, and 3.4% for those kept as inpatient. Comoribidities such as diabetes, coronary artery disease, kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders were associated with increased risk of readmission.

While more research will continue on the subject, this study shows that for an otherwise healthy patient requiring a multi-level ACDF, outpatient surgery is a safe and effective option.

This study was originally published in the Journal of Neurosurgery in March of 2019. JNS: 2019 Mar 29;31(1):70-75. doi: 10.3171/2019.1.SPINE181019