Bob,
There are good and bad people in all aspects of life but too often a doctor's ego is his downfall. I'm sorry this wrench was thrown in at the last minute but like eveyone else, it might be a blessing. My insurance company was my wrench and I too went to Germany.
I've posted often how afraid I was to go to Germany for surgery. It was a waste of my energies. However, one word of caution. The Stenum hospital may have helped a lot of people but they also have a blemished record. Especially if you have an insurance reimbursement, have you considered Dr. Bertagnoli, more commonly referred to as Dr. B?
If you go through Mark,
GPN Artificial Disc Replacement ADR, a consultation can take place quickly and surgery may be just around the corner. Please call him if for nothing else then to investigate this possibility.
I hope you find the relief you seek, I'm just pretty skepical about Stenum.
Dale