I really wish that I would have found this board earlier, especially this thread.

I had the trial back in August of 2010. During the trial, I had really one day of good coverage because the leads kept migrating. I was seen daily during the trial because the coverage was sketchy at times.

Because of improvement the one day brought, my doctor recommended going ahead with the implant. It was my understanding that since they knew of the migration problem, that they were going to do a surgical lead placement where no paddle was installed, but the leads were fixed to the spinal column somehow instead of just being "free-floating". In Sept of 2010, I had the implant. However, it was not what I was expecting and turned out to be a total nightmare. The leads migrated, I had the chest wall sensations which was like a heart attack. I also had a problem with sensations in the wrong area, abdomen and surprise "jolts" that almost caused me to fall. I had uncontrollable muscle spasms, it also literally jolted me up off the examining table.

At that time, it was decided and discussed that surgical leads should be placed. My battery had also flipped and was sticking out (this started immediately after the surgery), and wasn't a concern to my doctor until my Medtronic rep and myself was unable to communicate with the device.

In Dec of 2010, the paddle was implanted, as well as the battery moved. I was told that with the paddle that there would be no migration, that the paddle was a more controlled, direct method. So far, I have found this not to be the case with me. Also, my RSD symptoms have increased and "moved" I am now suffering in my back, shoulders, arms and fingers. The swelling is still so great, that wearing clothes other then my pjs and my bras is torture. I hate going out or having people over because of the discomfort.

I would suggest anyone that is considering the paddle or just "free-floating" leads really research this. I also had concerns about allergic reactions, a I have a metal allergy. I did have the testing done, but I still question some of the materials. I also expressed concerns about having some of the boney part of my spine being cut away to attach the paddle as my ortho knee surgeon noted that my bones at the time removed my screws were extremely soft. The only answer I really got from my doctors was that it is a very small part and that I would be fine.

Well, currently, I'm not. I'm doing what they say, not bending, twisting, etc. Not lifting anything heavy and taking my meds as directed. I guess I see what tomorrow's injection and appointment brings.

Again, research and ask a lot of questions!