annie1, fusion helps with DDD because it removes the disc. It will prevent spondylosis or lithesis at the fused levels. You sacrifice flexibility and relieve a majority of the pain. The artificial discs seem like a better bet because you retain more flexibility. And the success rates are high.
If I were looking at surgery, I'd post my location here and ask this group who the good and the other surgeons are. If you look on the internet you can find unscreened opinions, but you can look at number of surgeries. I always look at publications for someone who is focused on my issue. The disc surgeries are newer than fusion, so you want someone experienced. It is so difficult to make these decisions while in pain. Difficult to even do the research. If you have copies of your MRIs you can send them out. Bless your search.
I've seen and heard excellent results from this doctor https://www.rasoulispine.com/thepractice
Anyone else out there with a Surgeon to recommend?