DESCRIPTION: 18 weeks into this with no significant improvement. Have tried hydro therapy, heat therapy, cold therapy, 3 epidurals, regimen of prednisone, physical therapy. Hip, and front and sides of right leg have pain, numbness, tingling and pins and needles from waist to foot. Am currently taking anexsia and need the use of a crutch as cannot walk any distance (over a block without using it). Have had MRI and have seen local neuro surgeon and have been told while herniation may eventually shrink, the longer I wait the less likely the chances are that it will shrink and more likely permanent nerve damage due to the nerve compression. My other choice appears to be surgey (surgeon said a discectomy but appears to me it would need to be a laminectomy). Of course no guarantees and could end up in worse condition which is a frightening thought! SO........

Q. Is this above information basically correct? In other words are these these the choices I have?
Q. While I know there are no guarantees is there a general success rate (%)with this type of surgery?
Q. Is it wise to get a 2nd opinion and if so how do I locate a top rated 2nd opinion/surgeon/clinic.?
Q. And are there neurosurgeons who will do a consult via phone if I send them CD of MRI, or is this NOT a good idea? I ask because traveling is somewhat difficult(sitting, figuring out placement of leg to alleviate pain)if I cannot move around as in one of those small airplane seats.

Appreciate your time/response.

Thanks
Sally