I have, according to my MRI, severe cervical stenosis. I also have carpal tunnel, which was diagnosed first. Based on my symptoms and the awful looking MRI, 4 highly regarded spine surgeons recommended a 2 level fusion right away. The 5th doctor, instead recommended carpal tunnel and ulnar nerve releases. My symptoms abated by 80+% and is something I can live with comfortably.

None of the 4 other doctors even considered dealing with my carpal tunnel first, which, combined with stenosis causes what's called a 'double crush' scenario. Only one surgeon recommended the least invasive and risky procedure for me! Even though a fusion in the future is likely, for now the risk - reward for such a procedure does not warrant immediate action.

I also think it's worth noting that that 5th doctor is the only female of the group. She was the only one that didn't seem gung-ho about the fusion. I'm not saying gender plays a role but...