Thanks so much. I am in Mobile Alabama. Checking out Ortho spinal surgeons here that my VIVA Medicare will accept. But scared of this surgery unless i know the Dr is very experienced ! I hate this US Medicare --it should cover all the US for Seniors and not limited to states ! But I have granddaughter living in St Johns Florida . I would have to wait prob to Jan 2026 and change my Medicare to be able to do Mayo. If they even accept me. I sure don't want any hardware if at all possible ! Do you know if Dr Fox does this without the hardware? Was it very painful and how long recovery ?