Becky,
Please...do read...there are so many cases here of GREAT results. MANY MANY

Yes there is a big difference ...the leads are stitched in...and have to "scar in" meaning scar tissue has to develop around it which keeps it in it's place...now the paddle and please research this and do not take just my explanation...
the paddle is inserted into the spinal cavity by chipping out a piece of a disc.
The permanent has many 'programs" increasing the span of coverage and the intensity of the unit making that better although From what I have read the amount of pain relief is decreased with the permanent although still good.

have you read about BLAST?

I do hope others chime in soon.....go read Mark56...his story is very informative.

Also your rep will be the one person who you have to deal with on a constant for the first 4-6 weeks....yu have to have a good rapport with them and I do not feel your rep is as responsive to your needs as they should be...

Johanna