Have you gotten another opinion? The swing arm is very unusual. I had not seen it before. I hate the thought: of more fusion for you. Once C1-2 is fused, mobility does become an issue. Is he doing this to steady the bracket? Or is it because it is herniated? My Bracket is from C3-7. T1-2-3 are iffy for my future too. I will fight tooth claw and nail not to have any more done. Any way to re-do what you already have with a solid piece for stability? I am curious as to what your doctor is thinking. I sure hope you find a good solution, these back issues are no fun at all. ginnie