Sheila
I had 12" of my spine fused due to scoliosis surgery 7 years ago. They used a bone graft from my hip. I recommend using your own bone, if possible. Certainly my hip bothered me for a while, but once it healed, it never has bothered me again. On the other hand, I suffer from constant back pain due to the surgery. But, I never had back pain prior to the surgery. I opted for the surgery, because my appearance was crooked and it was getting worse. I was also told that the back pain would go away within 6 to 12 months. It never did. But, my sister just had lower back fusion surgery due to a ruptured disk. She was in a tremendous amount of pain. It's only been 2.5 months, but she is 100% better. She says the surgery was the best thing she ever did. I hope I did not confuse you more. I suggest you speak to a couple of your surgeon's patients who have had the same procedure done on them. Good luck.