Over 10 years ago I had a C5-6-7 fusion for severe neck pain caused by arthritis. The neurosurgeon put in a metal cage- anterior route in 3.5 hour surgery. There was very little pain after surgery. I had to wear a neck brace except when sleeping or showering for one month. I could only go for walks and do nothing else. After I could only lift 5 pounds. The C1-4 was inoperable due to severe arthritis and later started to cause pain but not as bad. I am managed with cortisone shots, ablations and gabapentin. Hope your surgery is successful as severe pain is so debilitating