@rita9876 So your choice with the orthopedic spine surgeon is they would add 2 extra levels of fusion at the upper end and is that going down to the sacrum at L5 / S1? Either way it sounds like a big surgery with a lot of levels to be fused. Are they using rods to stabilize the spine? Did this doctor give you a reason why they wanted to do the 2 extra levels? Did they show you the MRI and explain why? This is what surgeons should do. Often the discs next to fused levels can become affected because of extra stress put on them because movement isn't normal anymore. It is possible those extra 2 upper levels have an intermediate issue that is expected to get worse, but that is a question you need to ask the surgeon.

The neurosurgeon has the more conservative approach. If you have never had spine surgery, this will be a big change. What are the symptoms that you have right now that concerns your surgeons? Did either of them expect that you may need more spine surgery in the future? Do you have a spine deformity such as scoliosis that needs a curve correction? My spine surgeon at Mayo Rochester was neurosurgeon, Jeremy Fogelson. I mention that just in case you have seen him, as I think he is an excellent surgeon and kind person. Dr. Fogelson is a deformity expert and has a long track record of educational excellence. I would highly recommend Dr. Fogelson. I do think the surgeon's area of interest should match what you need to have done. I have no say here, but let me know what you think.