Morning Kerry. I empathize with your frustrations over making the huge decision as to surgery ... or not. I'm a 71 YO male who had L2-5 decompression and fusion 9+ months ago. I've learned a lot along the way and maybe I can help you create a perspective?

It's interesting the two surgeons had such different conclusions. You didn't mention what type of surgeons you consulted with? Considering the spinal cord is a bundle of nerves and nerve damage is to be avoided, I preferred a neurosurgeon and I'm happy I did! Do you have a neurosurgeon consultation?

If I had your two very different diagnoses - I'd seek a third as a tie-breaker.