Have you done any research on the procedure? Those odds are good, but I don't like to gamble as a rule. Swallowing would indeed be a real issue. Is he sure it isn't something to do with the Upper GI stuff, like gerds? If it is do to the spinal problem you need more from your doctor than what he is giving you. Just saying it is up to you, isn't the best approach. Either you really need the surgery or you don't. Being in the middle, and not having a definative answer isn't the best position to be in.
I was at risk of being paralized. I reversed the curve of my spine with my work. I had no choice in the matter at all. I wasn't able to move my head. For me it was a no brainer, and the same DX was given to me by two other doctors. I had confidence that it needed to be done. Have you gotten some other opinions regarding the swallowing issue? I am just thinking out loud here. Let me know who you have seen so far, and results of your tests OK? I don't know a whole lot about the condition you have, just a little from what I picked up on NT and on line. ginnie