re: Lumbar Spinal Fusion question..

I had a cervical fusion (C5-6-7) about 8 years ago and continue to have big problems. And cervical fusions are the most predictable and have the highest success rate. My neurosurgeon refuses to do lumbar fusions - he will do whatever other options are available, but believes very strongly that lumbar fusions should not be done. And he is the most honest surgeon I've ever met. He also strongly believes that neck and back surgery are done primarily for arm and leg pain, respectively. He says if the neck or back pain goes away, consider it a bonus.