Laura,
If you're going to consider Dr. Clavel, I recommend going through his website and not medical tourism. His site is
Dr. Pablo Clavel - Barcelona Spine Center - Medical Advantage Barcelona . You will get a response much quicker through him this way. I made the mistake of going through medical tourism and didn't get any info for a month!!
Another physician to consider is Dr. Bierstedt in Germany. He works primarily with the M6 disc. I also heard from others that the rehab he provides post-op is excellent. The facility is connected by a walkway to a Courtyard By Marriott Hotel. That's where you would stay for that week. I believe that the cost of the hotel and meals is covered in the package (for you and a family member). His site is
German Spine Specialists – M6 ADR Artificial Disk Replacement - Stop spine pain now, Lumbar Cervical Spine Surgery If you go contact them, I suggest you stay away from the American team leader Kelli Meier. She is a former patient of Dr. Ritter-Lang and is a chiropractic student in Colorado. For that reason, she isn't available that often to answer questions. Furthermore, if you go through her she gets a commission. I would deal with Malte Peterson directly. He's in Germany and works directly with the surgeon. He might get a commission as well, but he deserves it more than Kelli.
Finally, one other physician to consider is Mr. Dare in Southampton, UK. Here is his website:
Mr Christopher John Dare Orthopaedic surgery Consultant, Southampton, Hampshire, private hospital specialist. He works primarily with the M6 disc as well.
Last but not least, even though going overseas may be expensive, keep in mind that you can deduct all medical expenses and travel-related costs on Schedule A of your tax return to the extent they exceed 10% of your Adjusted Gross Income. Feel free to send me a PM regarding this if you need more information.
Good luck in this process!!
Gene