Hi Carol,
Boy, can I hear your pain talking. You want to be free of your pain NOW, not in two weeks and not after yet another surgery which are so difficult to get past.
BTDT - most of have. The cost varies from doctor to doctor and before committing to surgery out of the country, please verify if your insurance does cover ADRs because there are now many fantastic surgeons much closer. Today, the primary benefit of going overseas is the cost, which can be half of that here in the US, though some might suggest the absolute top surgeons are still in Germany. So take a deep breath and that is your first step. Once you know what your insurance co will cover or not, then you can decide with which doctors you want to consult.
Utilizing Mark's services,
GPN Artificial Disc Replacement ADR can make the process go faster. He can also recommend several doctors in your area of choice.
And as for that doctor who kept a spinal surgery patient waiting for 3 hours - send him a bill for your time. Then ask him why you have spinal fluid on your spine. This may be common but something I've never read about in all these forums. If this is something he did, you have still more to think about.
So cry, scream, get mad and get moving. You owe it to yourself but you've already figured that out. Insurance confirmation - possibly consult with Mark, choose top surgeons, get their opinions - choose one and go get your back fixed.
Good luck - Dale