Hi malinda, Is there anyway he can do an old fashioned pinning of that verterbre, and then go ahead and fuse C3- on.... You do need that C1-2 or turning your head will be a problem. I know a friend of mine who had a pin put in, instead of fusion. You might want to ask him about this, and if it is possible for you. Have you gotten the second opinion? I would do all I could to investigate this before I let him do it. There has to be some other option. I would agree to a body cast, any thing I could like that to save my mobility. What happened to you? PM me any time. I should talk about pain to you before you do this too. I am so sorry you are going through this. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. Can you post a thumb nail, or allow me to hear more about your MRI. I want to know exactly where your fractures are if you would share. When do you go back in? Keep in touch, I am here for you. ginnie