I have considered it and have so far been able to put it off, but I'll tell you what I learned. No insurance coverage was $21000 up front. I have two BCBS policies that cover me and LSI checked and the best estimate they could give me was $4000 out of pocket. They said if it was any more, they would eat it. A lot of cash, but to quit hurting it would be worth it. BTW, my doc says this is the top of the line method of spinal surgery. Eventually it will be more commonplace but the equipment is so expensive healthcare won't invest right now in a system filled with unknowns.