Cath 1 I had my C4to 6 fused in 05 and did just great. I was given the choice of surgery or a wheelchair, someone feeding me, and wearing diapers. In other words I would have been paralized and it was so urgent I had it a week after seeing my NS. Never regreted of course and am so thankful to have been saved from the chair. I ride a Hoveround now due to deteration of my spine and my neck is again ruptured at C6 to C7.
It was not that painful and my best advice is to tell you to have a good recliner to sleep in for a while. I slept on ours and it was so much better than the bed due to having a hard collar on for some weeks.
I hope everything turns out well for you and healing is quick' Hugs

PS my spelling is awful. LOL