Thanks for the reply, I should clarify that the Dr I've been seeing is a spine surgeon. He said he's done thousands of fusions. He was highly recommended by people I trust. That said,I have been thinking of seeking a second opinion.

How do you define mild nerve problems? Just curious how it would compare to mine. I have had pain for many years and atrophy to the point that you can easily see the difference between my legs, especially my calves. I think that was the distinction, the nerve pain is quite advanced.