thank you smooch. this info was exactly what I was looking for. Did you find out about this procedure from Mayo or from the doctor in Philly? I liven Louisville KY and go to UofLouisville pain management. I am scheduled for a pain stimulator implanted in my spine, but I had the trial of this and did not get much relief. However, it is my last hope. I've had nerve blocks, and seems like a hundred other treatments and take Lyrica and Cymbalta, along with Hudrocodone10. My daughters and I keep investigating all things we hear of. My daughter talked to a nurse about the gamma knife. The nurse said her father had this and it did not work for him, so I haven't planned it. It also has a short time of relief...I think it is 2 years. I am78 years old and hurt so bad I don't care whether I make it to 79. thank you so much for this info. I am calling my doctor on Monday to see if I can get this here in Louisville. thanks again for taking your time to do this. Susan Lurding. ps: did your insurance payoff this?