I had a Medtronics stimulator implanted in 2006 and do not ever want to be without one. A pain doctor accidentally pulled out my lead wire while doing an injection. I spent a week on Lortab 10's and could barely stand the pain, so I know for sure it works for me. I have had to have their technicians come and do some reprogramming and have always been pleased. They take their time and keep adjusting until I tell them they got it!
About three years ago I had to have an old stimulator replaced and now can have MRI's. Came in handy when I had my spine collapse after ruptures. It turned out to be a blessing as no one here would touch me and was sent over to Seattle, WA and got a major reconstruction of my spine and have no more spine pain. The neurosurgeon was concerned about causing me to lose the stimulation after surgery but it was still working. Just had to have it reprogrammed again.
I wish you luck and will be interested in how you do.