Welcome to Neuro Talk. Please do seek another opinion before you decide on any course of action, that includes any surgery. Epidurals can and do work. The word "mild" herniation may indicate you might not have to have this surgery right this minute. when the MRI states "Serious" than I would become a liitle more assertive in seeking care. Saying this however, I know that any nerve compression in the spinal cord, to impinge on the nerves is not good, and sometimes a surgerical solution is necessary. Others can help to understand your MRI better than I can. Seek the very best physicians you can, and get other opinions. I have had two cervial fusions, last one C3-7. I had exhausted all other forms of therapy before I submitted to surgery. I did have a good outcome, but it took two surgeries in my particuar case to bring relief. I do wish you all the best as you move forward with finding solutions. take care. ginnie