I have a bulging disc in my back. I see a chiropractor to do VAX therapy, which is basically a machine to do decompression.
I discussed the possibility of surgery with both my Doc and my Chiro (just in case), and they both said STAY AWAY from fusion. When you fuse together, it limits mobility, and the disc above has a good chance of herniation.
They now have a procedure which they can do laproscopically which is supposed to be much better.