This is the name for the procedure to alleviate pressure on compressed nerves from a disc herniation or from bone spurs. The procedure involves approaching the spine from the front by going through existing muscle planes. Then, the disc or bone spuris removed and a graft is placed between the neck bones (vertebrae) to allow them to heal. This healing of the bones together is called a fusion. A plate is placed over the bones and graft to hold them in place while they are healing.