Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Cervical Discectomy & Fusion – when non-surgical treatment options haven’t worked for pain in neck, arms or hands

  • High success rate to cure persisting symptoms
  • Minimally invasive anterior surgery
  • Specialist assessment and diagnosis

4.95

Based on 217 reviews, verified by

Doctify TopDoctors

Cervical Discectomy & Fusion from the best spine surgeon in the country

Caspar Aylott

B.Eng(Hons), MB ChB, MRCS, FRCS (Tr Orth), DM

Mr Caspar Aylott has many years of experience treating neck injuries. His fellowship training in spinal surgery took place in New Zealand where he worked side by side with the best surgeons treating International rugby players for neck trauma.

His interest in treating neck problems continues in the UK and he has huge experience treating a wide range of complex neck problems including neck pain, weakness and numbness into arms and hands and difficulty with balance and walking. With a Doctorate in spinal biomechanics from Nottingham University Mr Aylott has a unique and specialised perspective of the whole spine.

Caspar will be with you every step of the way from:

  1. Consultation
  2. Diagnosis
  3. Treatment
  4. Follow-up

FREE 15 minute
consultation

If you’re not sure then book a FREE 15 minute telephone consultation with one of our spine consultants, or just call us with any questions you may have.

CALL US ON 0208 004 0484
OR BOOK ONLINE

Mr Aylott’s explanation of my condition was faultless, I knew exactly where I was going. Eventually having my spine fused and after 5 months I can walk 2-3 miles per day, cycle 15 miles and swim. I’m getting daily, weekly, monthly improvements. It’s a 12 month journey, so I can say the operation was well worth it. Ps the only thing I can say is rest when it’s required. Mr Aylott thanks.

Mr D Seager, Doctify review from

Why should I get my cervical discectomy and fusion surgery from the UK Spine Centre?

  • We offer minimally invasive anterior or posterior cervical surgery to treat pinched nerves, bone spurs, bulging discs and spinal cord damage
  • Both traditional fusion or disc replacement options are available facilitating return to sport and all activities
  • Mr Aylott performs cervical surgery as a day case, ensuring you go home the same day and recover quicker

100s of patients are pain free after cervical discectomy and fusion procedures

We’ve treated people of all ages, from all walks of life. What unites them is they’ve chosen to take action with their pain, not spent years on a waiting list or pursuing alternatives that don’t work. Our effectiveness rate is second-to-none.

Click a person to hear their story

Mr Aylott undertook a remarkable procedure (L4-S1 instrumented fusion) to my lower spine. Remarkable in as much as, although it was considered a major surgical procedure, it was as good as walk-in walk-out with an early morning admission and afternoon discharge, same day. And remarkable that, after many years of pain (chronic sciatica included) I am now completely pain free. If only I had discovered the UK Spine Centre sooner. Nevertheless, I am much more mobile and would consider that I am at least 10 years younger!
Graham Smith, Google

I had been suffering with Sciatica for several months but in January my disc herniated so badly that I couldn’t walk, stand or sit without extreme pain. I was taking a lot of strong medication and so I booked an appointment to see Caspar Aylott. It was the best thing I could have done-we discussed the scan results and explored the options thoroughly including risks v benefits and I opted for surgery as I was unable to work or do anything at all due to the pain. Mr Aylott performed a L5/S1 microdiscectomy and within a few hours I walked pain-free and unaided from the HSH. It really was miraculous and I was off my post op pain meds just a few days later. Six weeks on I have seen Mr Aylott in clinic for a follow up and I was delighted to be able to thank him for his care and expertise . I have zero pain and fantastic mobility and back to work as a teacher in a busy reception class. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr Aylott to anyone suffering with back problems and my only wish is that I had acted sooner. I can’t thank him and his team enough.
Sarah Penn, Google

After suffering constant pain in my right side for over 8 years, one consultation with Mr Aylott provided a probable cause. This was followed up with a visit to a local imaging company who provided me with my results on a disc. Straight round to Mr Aylott and the probable cause was confirmed. Surgery followed a few weeks later and the pain that I have lived with for so long is no longer present. I would say that I would not hesitate to recommend the services of the UK Spine Centre, in particular Mr Aylott, but I have already made a recommendation to an associate who has similar back issues. It is worth every penny to understand what is causing the problem when the NHS were unable to provide a solution.
Phil Scott, Google

I had a consultation with Mr Aylott who took the time to listen and explain to me my most recent mri. He was informative but straight to the point which was appreciated. He also gave me reassurance as I had been suffering with back pain for months. I chose to have spinal injections under sedation to help me with my rehab. Both he and the other staff at the hospital were friendly and reassuring. Six weeks later my pain has been reduced dramatically so I am able to work on my rehab and get back to work. Thank you so much.
Ally Hunt, Google

For the first time in 20 years I am no longer suffering with back pain. The only regret I have going to see Mr Aylott was that l didn’t do it years ago.
Alan Joux, Doctify

Very knowledgeable, straight talking, and experienced Doctor. He makes you feel very confident in his expertise. I've had a really positive experience of the one day back appointment (two consultations sandwiched around an MRI) as well as a spinal injection in London. I will continue to use Mr Aylott for future back issues.
Rebecca B, Google

After four years of undiagnosed debilitating lower back, buttock and leg pain and numerous fruitless NHS and private appointments (including several injections targeting the wrong areas in my back), my husband persuaded me to visit the UK Spine Centre where I met Mr Caspar Aylott at his one-stop clinic. I had a consultation, MRI scan and diagnosis in one afternoon and a week later returned to the Harley Street Hospital for L5 nerve root block and caudal epidural. The pain relief was instant, and now, 8 weeks later I am at least 75% pain free and enjoying life again. Thank you so much Mr Aylott – I just wish I had found you sooner!
Afshana Bhattessa, Doctify

Had been suffering with herniated disc & severe sciatica for 6 months. Slow process with NHS so contacted Mr Aylott & within 2 weeks had a spinal injection so I could walk normally and enjoy my holiday while starting to heal naturally. He was straight to the point and clear with the options available. If you have been in pain for 3 months without any improvement I suggest you get in touch with Mr Aylott’s secretary, I wish I’d done it sooner.
Ritchie Sutton, Google

My back had been constantly bad for 2yrs plus and this was my last hope despite several physio's/ hospital appts nothing worked. On visiting this clinic, meeting Mr Aylott and being treated by him has turned my life around for the better. The pain ceased the first day after the operation (2nd Mar'23). I feel blessed right now and hope this continues. Mr Aylott and staff at this clinic are highly recommended and the whole process just took ~ 3 weeks to resolve…….Fantastic !!
Wayne Perkins, Google

I found Mr Aylott to be extremely professional and empathetic. I had seen a consultant elsewhere who I did not feel confident in, and came to Mr Aylott for a second opinion. I felt safe and trusted him with my procedure.
Olivia Hanna, Google

Mr. Caspar Aylott has been a lifesaver for me. His expertise in lower spinal treatment is remarkable, and I couldn't be more grateful for the care he provided. From our initial consultation to the conclusion of my treatment, Mr. Aylott's professionalism and deep understanding of spinal health shone through. He not only relieved my lower spinal issues but also took the time to explain everything clearly, making me feel empowered and informed throughout the process. His compassionate approach and commitment to his patients' well-being make him a standout healthcare provider. I highly recommend Mr. Aylott to anyone in need of top-quality lower spinal treatment.
Catherine Ashiley, Google

I only have praise for Mr Aylott. He really takes the time to listen and after months of being rushed in and out of NHS appointments, I was left feeling very alone, unsupported and lacking in vital information. I was presented with a solution, that after meeting Mr Aylott, he suggested was a 'final resort'. I cannot stress enough, how that was a huge relief. It felt like a huge 'weight' was lifted from me and that I was back in control. Not only did he explain to me what was going on with my spine, he also assured me that I was not doing any further damage, which had been a huge fear of mine. Mr Aylott is thoroughly recommended. I felt that not only is he an expert in his field, he really does care about you as a patient, and only wants the best outcome for you, based on your needs and your situation. I no longer feel alone or unsupported.
Jim Boulder, Doctify

Such was the excellent service I received recently from Dr. Aylott at the UK Spine Centre I felt compelled to send the below feedback to his medical secretary: Thank you very much for the excellent and very detailed report from Dr. Aylott which is both reassuring and a valuable summary of my low back condition. I would kindly appreciate if you could pass on my sincere thanks to Dr. Aylott for his professional advice, informative consultation and report, and above all else his empathetic approach in reassuring me that its thankfully not yet time to hang up my various sporting attire which for me is a huge relief… thank you indeed! Wishing Dr. Aylott, his team and of course yourself a wonderful Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year…
Gary Melhuish, Google

I just wanted to let you know that making the decision to come and see you was the best thing has happened. I have been messed about and sent to see so many different people via the NHS and in the end was just let down so badly. My husband couldn't stand seeing me in so much pain anymore that he contacted the Spine Clinic and I was seen by them within a couple of days. Yes, it costs a bit of money, but it has saved me months of waiting for an appointment, months of being in pain and months of being on the wrong medication. I had my appointment, was given an MRI Scan, which the NHS do not like giving out and I had a face to face conversation which is also something that you have to also wait months to get now. 3 hours in the Clinic, everything was done, there and then and it has completely changed my life. I am no longer taking medication that I don't need, I have been given detailed information about what is actually wrong and a plan to go forward. I have been given the correct advice and all the information that I need. All I can say is Thank You, you have changed everything for me and my family. I am now looking forward to the future and I highly recommended doing this, its peace of mind and you don't have to wait. Louise Hill
Louise Hill, Google

Mr Aylott explained everything in detail to me very clearly. We looked at my MRI and I am now much clearer about my situation. He examined me and listened to my history. He recommended and administered spinal injections which have worked to a degree and they have allowed me to start gentle exercise which is slowly aiding my recovery. Most importantly, Mr Aylott answered all of my questions and reassured me about all of the things I was worried about. I did not feel rushed and I refer to the patient letter he wrote me regularly to refresh my knowledge of my back. If you're constantly reading worrying articles online and/or waiting for an NHS appointment, I recommend seeing Mr Aylott. Do not expect the NHS to help you. In addition, his staff was extremely helpful in setting up appointments. Thank you Mr Aylott and the team!
Joanna Lowes, Doctify

I only have praise for Mr Aylott. He really takes the time to listen and after months of being rushed in and out of NHS appointments, I was left feeling very alone, unsupported and lacking in vital information. I was presented with a solution, that after meeting Mr Aylott, he suggested was a 'final resort'. I cannot stress enough, how that was a huge relief. It felt like a huge 'weight' was lifted from me and that I was back in control. Not only did he explain to me what was going on with my spine, he also assured me that I was not doing any further damage, which had been a huge fear of mine. Mr Aylott is thoroughly recommended. I felt that not only is he an expert in his field, he really does care about you as a patient, and only wants the best outcome for you, based on your needs and your situation. I no longer feel alone or unsupported.
Martin Birch, Doctify

I saw Mr. Aylott after eight months of being unable to sit down due to severe sciatic pain with no hope of resolution on the NHS. He talked me through my treatment options and two weeks after phoning up to make my first appointment I had a successful microdiscetomy. The process from start to finish was professional and respectful. I now have my life back and am looking forward to regaining my previous levels of activity after the recovery period. Many thanks to the whole team involved in my care.
Libby Makinson, Google

I had been suffering with Sciatica for several months but in January my disc herniated so badly that I couldn’t walk, stand or sit without extreme pain. I was taking a lot of strong medication and so I booked an appointment to see Caspar Aylott. It was the best thing I could have done-we discussed the scan results and explored the options thoroughly including risks v benefits and I opted for surgery as I was unable to work or do anything at all due to the pain. Mr Aylott performed a L5/S1 microdiscectomy and within a few hours I walked pain-free and unaided from the HSH. It really was miraculous and I was off my post op pain meds just a few days later. Six weeks on I have seen Mr Aylott in clinic for a follow up and I was delighted to be able to thank him for his care and expertise . I have zero pain and fantastic mobility and back to work as a teacher in a busy reception class. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr Aylott to anyone suffering with back problems and my only wish is that I had acted sooner. I can’t thank him and his team enough.
Sarah Penn, Google

I had decompression and stabilisation surgery on 14/06/23 performed by Mr Aylott and found Mr Aylott to be an excellent surgeon, kind, patient and able to explain my symptoms and subsequent treatment in a clear and concise manner. The whole process from diagnosis to surgery was easy and straight forward and I am now pain free after 6 terrible months. I highly recommend Mr Aylott, he is a first rate spinal surgeon and thank him from the bottom of my heart for giving me my life back.
Rajeev Vasisht , Google

After suffering with debilitating sciatic leg pain for 8 months I contacted Mr Aylott. I had a 3 in 1 appointment at the UK Spine centre .After my initial consultation any apprehension I felt regarding back surgery was dispelled by Mr Aylott’s professionalism and confidence that the procedure he outlined would be of considerable benefit.He explained all aspects of his diagnosis and proposed treatment with clarity that made my decision making process very easy . After decompression surgery I was able to leave the hospital later that day and within days I was able to stop taking all painkillers apart from an occasional paracetamol.The relief since the operation has been remarkable ,I would not hesitate to recommend Mr Aylott for any spinal issues
Rory Goodwin , Google

Severe lower back pain diagnosed by Mr Aylott as fracture of T12 vertebrae and there was presumed osteoporosis. It was explained that the fracture would heal over time but the pain could be relieved by an operation involving cement augmentation (balloon kyphoplasty). No pressure whatsoever to have an operation but opted to do so. Pain relieved practically immediately after op at The Harley Street Hospital in London. Mr Aylott was very thorough, considerate and professional as were his team, the MRI scan staff, the staff at Spa Private Medical in Cheltenham and at the Harley Street Hospital. Also used the local recommended taxi service from home to the hospital. Whole process was made very easy and I would recommend visiting Mr Aylott if you have any spinal condition that requires treatment.
Susan Campbell, Google

I was aware, almost straightaway, of the benefits of the surgery, skilfully performed by Mr Aylott. The gnawing pain I was experiencing when walking had gone. I had had what he described as a very tight spinal stenosis, which, over the last few years, had made walking increasingly difficult. Now I can walk in the country lanes near where I live without looking, desperately, for somewhere to sit down. It is quite amazing what a difference the surgery has made. It is all due to Mr Aylott's skill, (he is a genius), and to the kind and attentive staff at the Harley Street Hospital, who looked after me so well. His secretarial staff too are knowledgable, kind and helpful. I have no hesitation in recommending Mr Aylott and The UK Spine Centre to anyone suffering spinal problems. I shall always be grateful to them. Stuart Pickford
Stuart Pickford, Google

Mr Aylott identified my problem, explained the options I had clearly, identifying the pros and cons of each one. I decided on surgery which he carried out without any fuss, ending well above my expectations. Dealing with Mr Aylott has been a pleasure. He is down to earth, approachable and listens to the patients concerns explaining complex issues in understandable language. I have no hesitation in recommending Mr Aylott.
Jenny Cousins, Google

I went round in circles for over 7 yrs with the NHS and in that time in a great deal of pain, and getting nowhere. I went to see Mr Aylott, who was very approachable and pleasant, and put me completely at ease. He took the time to explain my problems in detail in a way I fully understood, being very honest as to what could be done to help me, pointing out the pros and cons of my condition. Consultation and procedures were very quick indeed. I would recommend anyone with spinal problems to see this wonderful man, he has transformed my life, and it was worth every penny. I cannot thank Mr. Aylott enough
Karen Arch, Google

Independently Verified

103 five-star reviews on TopDoctors

115 five-star reviews on Doctify

Tell me more about what cervical discectomy and fusion involves

Why have an Anterior cervical disc replacement or fusion (ACDF)?

We use this surgery most commonly for slipped disc in the neck or removing a bony spur which is compressing a nerve causing painful arm symptoms or leg weakness.

It is good for patients when other less invasive treatments have not helped and symptoms are ongoing past 6-8 weeks.

What is ACDF?

For most problems in the neck the best surgical approach is through the front (anterior) of the neck.

A small horizontal skin incision is made and gently dissected to reach the spine without damaging any muscles.

Unlike in the lower back it is normally necessary to remove the whole disc to reach the trapped nerve.

The disc herniation or bony spur is then nibbled away freeing the nerve.

A decision can then be made whether to fuse or carry out a disc replacement?

When performing a fusion a wedge/block of synthetic material (called a cage) is inserted into the empty disc space, which avoids taking bone from elsewhere.

The skin is then closed over a drain which is there to collect any blood.

The whole procedure takes just over one hour.

What are the risks of ACDF?

Surgery on the neck sounds alarming however it is generally quite safe with a low risk of complications.

There is 2-3% chance of having a complication which includes a nerve injury, spinal fluid leak, infection, implant migration, hoarseness, swallowing problems, bleeding. Spinal cord injury or paralysis is thankfully exceptionally rare.

About 5% of individuals (one in twenty) may have ongoing pain despite the nerve being successfully decompressed.

What are the benefits of ACDF?

This operation has an excellent chance of being successful regardless of whether we perform a fusion or disc replacement.

Our patients have at least an 80% chance that their arm pain will be better. Neck pain like back pain may be more unpredictable.

There is a 10-15% that patients are improved but not completely better. This may reflect the nerve remaining bruised from being compressed.

When would a fusion be used rather than disc replacement?

There are a few factors to consider when deciding to fuse or replace the disc in the neck. A patient’s age and life-style may guide the surgeon as to which method to use. A disc replacement may be considered in a younger more active patient, whereas a fusion might be preferable for a patient with osteoporosis or joint disease. A full discussion between the patient and surgeon always takes place looking at the pros and cons of both approaches.

What is the recovery process after neck surgery?

In our experience patients recover very quickly from anterior cervical surgery and there is no difference in recovery between performing an anterior fusion or disc replacement.

Patients are up and about within a few hours of the procedure and home within a day and do not require a neck collar.

We use a dissolvable suture which patients prefer.

Simple painkillers may be helpful in the first week or so but usually arm pain improves very quickly. Pins and needles and numbness may take longer to improve.

Swallowing may feel a bit ‘sticky’ due to bruising, but usually settles within a few weeks.

Patients build up walking and aerobic exercise each day.

Patients return to work within a few weeks or when they feel ready.

We see patients back in clinic six weeks after their operation and then 3 months later.

Return to non-contact competitive sport can start from 3 months, and one year for contact sports such as rugby.

Don’t trust a non specialist with your neck surgery

It’s your neck!
Talk to us and let’s put you on the path to permanent recovery.

Your cervical discectomy and fusion journey with the UK Spine Centre

It’s easy to get your cervical discectomy and fusion surgery booked in with no waiting, once we establish that it’s exactly the right treatment for you.

1 Speak to us

We will discuss the options that work for you in a free 15 minute consultation

2 Book an appointment

Visit our state of the art Harley Street clinic or we offer video consultations

3 On the Day Diagnosis

Get assessed, scanned and diagnosed in one day

4 Day case surgery

Get expert treatment and be up on your feet the same day

5 Follow Up Consultation (FREE and included)

To make sure you are better and back to doing what you love

Learn more about your symptoms

Use our DiagnoseMe Analyser to give you a steer on your condition and the next steps

Frequently Asked Questions about cervical discectomy and fusion

What is the recovery time after an ACDF?

As with all surgery recovery time will vary between patients. Patients will be up and about within a few hours of surgery and are able to go home. Pain from surgery is controlled with medication and should lessen within 2-4 weeks of the surgery.

There may be some tingling or numbness after surgery which should lessen over time. Swallowing problems are common in the days immediately following surgery.

Are there permanent restrictions after ACDF neck surgery?

Most patients requiring neck fusion or disc replacement will already have restricted neck movement due to their pain. With fusion there will be about a 5% decrease in bending flexibility, however most patients don’t notice the restriction the more noticeable thing being pain free.

When is cervical disc replacement not an option?

Patients with osteoporosis may not have strong enough bone to support a disc replacement. Other spinal abnormalities such as spondylolisthesis, scoliosis and spinal stenosis may not be appropriate for a disc replacement.

The patient experience: Miles’ story

“I am now completely pain free. If only I had discovered the UK Spine Centre sooner.”

The Problem

Miles was an IT consultant in his mid 50’s. His job was desk based, but he kept himself fit and had worked hard on rehabilitation following a hip replacement. However during one of his regular gym sessions he found his leg was very weak. This progressed to feeling unsteady on his feet and his walking was reduced to 30 metres.

He had no neck pain or arm symptoms. He had no back pain.

Prior to seeing Mr Aylott, Miles had two MRI’s performed, one of his lumbar spine and one of his thoracic spine. This showed degeneration and stenosis, but crucially no root compression.

Our Diagnosis

When a patient presents with leg weakness it matters who they see. Without the level of experience and training that a consultant spine surgeon has the patient might be given exercises for a lower back problem or stretching exercises for legs.

A detailed history of Miles’ symptoms was essential to determine where his problem was originating.

The MRI of his lumbar spine showed ‘a back problem’ but it did not match with the symptoms he was describing. His painless weakness and imbalance pointed to compression in the neck with a spondylotic myelopathy.

A further MRI of his cervical spine showed C6/7 degenerative disc herniation with severe spinal cord compression and myelopathy.

The Treatment

Without surgery the neurological symptoms were likely to deteriorate further going on to affect arms and further weakness and imbalance in the legs potentially going on to affect the bladder and bowels. Conservative treatment was not going to help.

Miles considered his options carefully, selecting to have surgery and two weeks later underwent a C6/7 anterior decompression and fusion. After surgery his legs felt stronger and the sensation in his legs was much improved. He has returned to mowing the lawn and is  actively working in the garden again.

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A comprehensive range of treatments

Cervical discectomy & fusion is just one technique amongst a comprehensive set of treatments we can provide on-site. We are one of the few clinics that can offer same day diagnosis through to treatment.

Our treatments have helped over 9,142 people get back to doing what they love.

This was the best medical treatment I have ever received. After years of getting nowhere I was listened to and treated perfectly and with respect. I cannot recommend highly enough.
Alan Peterson, Tonbridge

Get fixed in 1 day! Day Case Spine Surgery

We are one of only a few centres in the world who routinely perform day case spine surgery. Our patients are up and about within a few hours of surgery and appreciate going home the same day.

Finance Options Available

We are able to offer monthly payment options so that you don’t need to wait to say goodbye to pain.

When are you going to say
goodbye to pain?

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Call us on 0208 004 0484

Can we help you with your back problem?

Take advantage of a FREE 15 MINUTE telephone consultation with one of our top spine consultants to understand how we can help you. This is a great opportunity to talk through your symptoms, potential diagnosis and possible treatment options.

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    We will be able to book you an appointment (usually today or tomorrow) or we can arrange a free 15 minute consultation.

    Caspar Aylott