Had a C5-6-7 Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion (ACDF). They went thru the front, put in cadaver bone, plate and six screws. Done in 2001 or so, I was 30. Condition "caused" by a chiro doing a full cervical spine adjustment when he shouldn't have.
It's my understanding that artificial disc technology affords mobility where I have none - but I got off lucky. Do some research and ask lots of questions. I have only minor reduction in mobility. I'm 48 now and still ride drop bars - but conscious that I need to be a bit more upright than a "racing" position. Do the PT is the best advice and then figure out what works for your level of mobility.
LAXPC