When I had my cervical fusions, there were 2 choices, harvest your own bone or use a cadaver. Frankly, the idea of cadaver bone totally freaks me out, so I used my own. I can tell you that the hip pain was exponentially worse than the neck pain post-op! That being said, if I had to do it again, I would use my own bone. I believe that your own bone gives you the best and quickest chance of fusion. I haven't had a fusion in over 10 years, so I know the bone material has advanced a great deal. Best of luck with your surgery and keep us posted.