Welcome to MayoConnect. I found many useful comments on the site and I often asked questions to hear other perspectives.

That's a lot of surgeries and fusions - I can understand your concern to avoid a full fusion if possible. You didn't say - have your spine issues been from an accident or genetic? As you are well aware, genetically driven spinal degradation won't repair itself. I had a C4-7 ACDF and L2-5 decompression and fusion. I didn't make the surgery decision based just on my pain levels - I became increasingly concerned that permanent nerve damage from spinal compression could force me to a wheelchair or some such if I waited too long. While the struggles of surgery have been significant - I'm still glad I made those decisions.

What sort of doctor are you consulting with?