You know we will be with you, whatever decision you make. My questions for the vet would be:

1. How common is this procedure?
2. How many of these operations has this surgeon done?
3. Any chance, as others have mentioned, of talking to people whose cats have been through this?
4. How with this effect her long-term health?
5. How will this effect her quality of life?
6. What are the side effects of this surgery?
7. If she will then be on medicine for the rest of her life, what are the side effects?

All our love to you and Bassett.