A one-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure used to relieve pressure on a nerve root or the spinal cord caused by a single damaged disc in the neck. It is typically considered after symptoms such as arm pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness have not improved with nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy or medication. The goal of the procedure is to decompress the affected nerve or spinal cord, stabilize the spine at one level, and reduce pain while preserving as much normal neck function as possible. The process begins with a thorough clinical evaluation to confirm that symptoms are coming from a single cervical disc. Imaging studies are used to identify disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, bone spurs, or narrowing of the nerve pathways. Once surgery is recommended, patients receive detailed preoperative instructions, which often include adjusting medications, stopping anti-inflammatory drugs and blood thinners, avoiding nicotine and alcohol, and completing presurgical testing to ensure they are medically cleared for surgery. Smoking cessation is particularly important, as nicotine significantly interferes with bone healing and fusion. On the day of surgery, the procedure is performed from the front of the neck through a small incision. Approaching the spine from the anterior side allows the surgeon to reach the disc directly while minimizing disruption to the spinal cord and surrounding muscles. During the operation, the damaged disc is carefully removed along with any bone spurs or tissue compressing the nerves. Once the disc space is cleared, a bone graft or spacer is placed between the two vertebrae to maintain proper spacing and alignment. A small plate and screws are typically used to stabilize the spine and support the fusion process at that single level. After surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery area and are often able to go home the same day or after an overnight stay. Temporary throat soreness, hoarseness, or mild swallowing difficulty are common due to the surgical approach and usually resolve over time. Activity is gradually increased, with early walking encouraged, but patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or strenuous neck movements during the initial healing period. Some individuals may wear a cervical collar or brace for added support, depending on the surgeon’s preference. Recovery continues over several weeks as the bone graft begins to fuse the two vertebrae into a single solid segment. Physical therapy may be introduced once healing allows, focusing on restoring strength, flexibility, and safe movement patterns. Most patients experience significant relief of arm pain, with improvement in weakness and numbness occurring more gradually. Full recovery from a one-level ACDF typically takes several weeks, though the fusion process itself continues for months as new bone forms and stabilizes the spine.