Thank you for sharing your vivid dream. Dreams about surgery often symbolize a desire for healing or transformation, particularly when they involve a personal part of your body like your back. In your case, it may reflect feelings about your ongoing battle with degenerative disk disease and a subconscious need to address or 'fix' something that has been troubling you for a long time.

The fact that you are awake and not feeling pain during the procedure might indicate a sense of acceptance or resignation regarding your condition. It could suggest that you are mentally processing your challenges without the emotional distress that typically accompanies them.

Your husband’s presence in the operating room can represent support, but his departure may tap into feelings of vulnerability or abandonment. It’s natural to feel concerned about your partner's absence during such a critical moment. This aspect of the dream could symbolize fears about feeling unsupported in your struggles, even if you and your husband are not facing any direct issues in your relationship.

The conversation you had with the medical staff, although forgotten, may indicate a need to communicate about your health or to seek understanding and reassurance about your condition.

Overall, this dream might be urging you to explore your emotions surrounding your health, your relationship, and your need for support. It could be beneficial to have an open conversation with your husband about your feelings and any concerns you have. This could help reinforce your connection and alleviate any subconscious fears of abandonment during tough times.