welcome to Neruo Talk. There are alot of folks here you can help you while you make this decision. I hope you already have gone for a second and even a third opinion, crossing professional medical specialists. Your MRI is the best indicator of just how serious your condition is. There are people here who can help you to understand your own MRI. I have had two spinal fusions. I do not tell anyone to get the surgery until all other options have been explored. For me the first single fusions a C6-7 did NOT work, I was left with multipal problems that were not addressed, and I did NOT do my homework about my condition before I submitted to the surgery. 22 months ago I was fused C3-7. I had the domino effect, where the verterbre above and below were not good. Many questions need to be answered before you go ahead and do this. Please make very sure, that there is no other options, as far as treatment goes. My surgery did turn out OK but this road was very very difficult. I do wish you all the best. I will be here for you no matter what your decision is to help you in any way I can. Leesa, is the best as far as being able to understand the MRI termonology. Keep in touch. Welcome again to Neruo Talk. You really did find a compassionate group of people here. ginnie