You are wise to be hesitant about a spinal fusion. Too many docs jump on the spinal fusion band wagon. I have seen too many posts here(along with my own personal experience) where people complain of the spinal fusion not helping, and often causing more problems. Did you have an MRI? On what basis are they telling you to have a fusion? I would recommend that you get a second, even third opinion before allowning someone to cut into your back again. There should be overwhelming evidence for the fusion, confirmed by a second opinion. I wish you well.