Clavel has revision insurance that you can buy to help with those fears.

Icanraceit,
I am also in the process of deciding what and how to take care of my back. I am for the most part a fairly fearless person and have to admit that some of the scenarios you can come with are pretty scary. Much like you, my wife has a lot more fear of going to Europe than I do, but after she came to one of the local consults with me and started reading thru the forum she told me that she is beginning to see that the possibility of a far superior outcome may override the fear of going overseas. Don't let comfort level of our perceived norm become a fear. The clincher for us both feeling comfortable was the great lunch we had with JeffR last Sunday - He is a normal guy, doing well, and ran into many of the same obstacles in decision making that we are:)

Jeff,

What is this revision insurance you spoke about and what is the cost. I never was informed about this?

There seems to be some confusion about this. I signed for it when I was checked in and was told it was for 2 years to cover revisions, there was no special quote for it. The situation has changed recently however as patients now are being told that the insurance is only for 1 year and it a couple thousand dollars I think. If you got it in November you should have the same deal as me, you can contact Yolanda to get clarification.

I can totally understand that. But be assured that from what I've read Dr. Clavel is who fixes the ones that go wrong! But I totally get the fear. I keep thinking "What the hell am I about to do?!" But 20 years of low back pain and 10 or cervical pain? I'm just done. I know recovery is going to be hell, but it will be worth living the rest of my life without back pain. I'm 35. The rest of my life is a long damn time.

Does anyone know what Dr. Clavel's advertised success rate or at least what he tells his patients prior to surgery? Thanks and God Bless!!

He told me he's never done a revision.

I have a phone conversation with Yolanda in a few minutes.. I am hoping to get some of my questions answered. I will let you guys know the outcome. Thanks again for all of your help and god bless!

Good luck! Tell her Jeff from Canada says hello. :)