I have a very advanced case of cervical disc disease caused by arthritic bone spurs in C-4-5-6.  I have to have anterior cervical disc fusion as soon as possible.  I saw a neurosurgeon in Ogden, UT where I live.  My MRI shows the space in that area to be  only 7-8.  I have weakness and shaking in my left arm for which neurological disease has been ruled out by a neurologist. 
 
The biggest problem I have with the surgery is that I am an opera singer and have been singing since I was two years old.  I have a beautiful voice and am extremely worried that the surgery will damage my voice.  I know there is a laminectomy (removal of bone from the spinal cord) where entry is from the back, but the neurosurgeon I saw said I will get little relief from the weakness in my left arm.  
 
I realize you don't make diagnoses or recommendations by e-mail, but I have only one question.  If I can get that question answered, I will travel to LA to see a neurosurgeon and have the surgery because my daughter lives there and I can stay with her for a month.  It is a waste of time for me to travel to LA unless I know there is some alternative to that which I can find in Ogden, UT.
 
My question twofold:  Is there any new technique where there is more assurance of minimizing damage to the vocal chords, and is there any way to determine the configuration of the vocal chord nerve, so a person can make an informed decision about the surgery?
 
I would appreciate an answer as soon as possible.  I need to make arrangements for the surgery as soon as possible.  Thank you.