Hey Rich,
Have you heard of Dr. Matthew Scott Young? He's in your country. Perhaps a ways away from you, but closer than Europe. He is considered one of world's most experienced spinal arthroplasty surgeons...
Dr Matthew Scott-Young - Gold Coast Healthcare
It's interesting to see ratings from patients of his work too. You won't find that in the US...yet.
PS: I checked Google maps, it's only 4400 Km away from you. If you start driving now, you should get there in 2 days and four hours.
