Welcome Jerry,

If that's the same as Endoscopic Microdiscectomy (aka Micro Endoscopic Discectomy) then it's the gold standard, and the least risky of the three procedures I know of. Lumbar surgery is also less complicated/risky than, say... cervical, though that doesn't mean it's without risk - ALL surgery involves risk.

The way I see it, the choice appears to be either do nothing and continue to deteriorate (with all that entails), or take the chance. No-one can decide that for you. Something to remember is that online, you see mostly the bad outcomes, because the good outcomes don't need support groups, don't tend to post about their successes, and are out getting on with/living their lives.

It IS important to know the track record of the surgeon you choose with the exact (or as close the exact) same procedure.

If you haven't, google: questions before lumbar surgery (and similar terms) and failed back surgery syndrome.

Best wishes,

Doc