These are amazing discussions. Every potential back (cervical is way different than lumbar - I’ve had both) patient should read the comments.

One quibble. I keep reading that back surgery is a compromise as the ultimate outcome is not predictable. I propose that surgical decisions (maybe all medical decisions) are more about managing personal risk. At the surgical decision point the potential patient is in a downward cycle of pain, debilitation, and deterioration. Those worsening symptoms being felt are NOT going to magically reverse themselves. You reach a point where doing nothing is no longer tenable.

But no surgeon can say with exactitude (multiple reasons) what your particular post surgical outcome will be. Of course you are frustrated by this lack of specificity. Of course you deserve more focused answers.

So now the risk management. You can either (a) continue on the current path and what that can lead to or (b) risk a serious back surgery with an unpredictable (to some degree) outcome. Crummy choices to have to make.

So manage your risk the best way you can. Best facility. Best diagnostic equipment. Best surgeon(s). Get yourself in the best pre-op physical condition as you can. Think positive thoughts. Have the best PT care ready for you post surgery. Follow all medical instructions.

You’ve managed all your risks as best you can. Then - it’s time to trust your process, make that decision, and transition to execution knowing you did everything you could to manage your risks.

And hope for the best. There simply aren’t any guarantees.