@thomason, I think you are asking good questions of your surgeon. It's important to understand why he is recommending a trach placement to perform the cordotomy. That would be good information to have when you go for a second opinion.

I'm also tagging @marydwyer51 on this discussion. She had a cordotomy a while back and may have useful experience to share with you. Thomson, when do you have your second opinion? Are you able to talk to the ENT and ask your questions?