Ruptured disc MRI shows seperate bulge?

Hi, I have a rutured disc in C5/C6. I am being advised to have a fusion of these two vertebrae but i am a little uneasy about the long term success of this surgery. I have just decided to cancel my planned surgery for Thursday. I know that I am taking a risk of damaging my spine by leaving this condition untreated but am hoping with time it may heal. I am not entirely satisfied with the idea of spinal fusion as I have a fear that with surfing and all the other activities I partake in that I would undoubtably put a lot of stress on the discs above and below and end up having to return for surgery for further fusions. Therefore ending up with a completely useless neck unable to turn my head. I am only 27.

Also I have noticed in the axial cut that the bulge pressing into the spine seems to be separate from the disc, as if the annulus of the disc is fully intact? Is it possible that the nucleus could have leaked out, the annulus then healed leaving ruptured material in the spinal canal? I have attached the slide from the MRI that I am referring to. I hope someone out there can help as I have seen 2 neurosurgeons and have nowhere else to go. I am also open to any suggestions as to where else I can get help.

thanks in advance

Ray

[kittyluv1]

Hi --
I posted a response on the other thread you opened regarding cervical fusion.
It appears to me that any material that is affecting the spinal canal is serious and warrants further treatment.  This is not a condition that will heal itself.
Try not to worry about possible additional surgeries --- you may never need them.
Focus on your current problem and hopefully you will have as successful an outcome as I have had.
I have no discernible problems with movement of my neck and I am fused from C4-C7.
Let me know how I can assist you in relieving your concerns ---