Rosemary
I had an anterior cervical diskectomy about 5 years ago. I had pinched nerves in C5, C6, and C7. The surgery itself was a piece of cake. I went home the next morning, I didn't have too, just couldn't stand being in the hospital. The important thing is afterwards. Do EXACTLY what the surgeon/PT's tell you to do. I had the surgery in the beginning of summer and the worst part was wearing the plastic collar in 90 degree heat. I wore the collar 24 hours a day, I had 2, one to wear in the shower and then the dry one to put on afterwards. I couldn't drive for 3 months or ride in a car for a while. Would I do it again? Yes--I had started to lose function in my hands and arms. I didn't get that back, but it also didn't get worse. The scar has disappeared. This is one time when you really need to follow the rules and things will work out well. Pain was minimal and I was able to have pain meds to get me through the worst part. Good luck and if you have any questions, please ask.