I think the process (I am in the middle of three planned surgeries) is straight forward. (1) Get the best diagnosis you can! That means go to where the MRI/X-Ray equipment is top notch. (I went to one "average" place and then to Mayo. The output at Mayo was several levels more sophisticated). (2) Find a facility that has a specialty in spine surgery. My research landed me on using a neurosurgeon rather than an orthopedic surgeon. I want my nerves well treated! (3) Find a surgeon who's experienced and, in my case, a published researcher in this medical field. He is familiar with the very latest equipment and procedures. His bedside manner is lacking...but I really only care about his "In the OR manner"...! (4) Agree on a surgical strategy w/your doc that you're comfortable with. (5) At that point, make your decision, focus on getting better, and trust the detailed process you followed to then. No need to look back or second-guess yourself.