[sageb1]

"The treatment is also less expensive than the more invasive alternative. Implanting a single X-stop costs about $17,000; implanting two costs $24,000, he said. A laminectomy is about $50,000."

I think I'll go with my limp.

[Forte Runningrock]

What will you do when you can't even limp sit, stand, lay down, bend down, take a crap?

If your problem is managable, certainly, avoid surgery. It's risky. But if your condition gets worse, you have to do something about it if you want to have any sort of life worth living. Trust me, it isn't pleasant to be in that much pain 24 hrs a day. (thank God for oxycontin!!)

I hope you never degenerate to the point where you need surgery, but at least you know it's available, and now a less risky one is an option as well. I'll have to ask my Doc about this, as i'm long overdue for a third operation.

[Ursus arctos horribilis]

"A laminectomy is about $50,000."

That seems a bit steep. I had a four level lumbar spinal fusion done with two rods and eight screws three years ago, and it ran just over 75 grand. (where they removed bone fom hip for graft has given the most pain)

Had two laminectomies done about five years apart back in the 80's. They helped for a few years, then things deteriorated to the fusion thingy.

[STD]

I have a new product that helps a lot. If you are interested I could send you some