mala,
my heart goes out to you. it sounds like you have been through it and then some. I have had two surgeries on my back and can attest, like you, that surgery isn't really fun. i think i'd rather spend a week with my ex-wife - no, not really.
i don't have to tell you that surgery is a last resort and not a first choice. if you have confidence in the surgion, and if there don't seem to be any alternatives, then i pray that god will hold you in the hollow of his hand throughout your ordeal.
best wishes for a successful surgery and a quick recovery.
warren