Used Poles in 2006 and 2007 (both years only got to Champex) used them again in 2009 and got round this time, entered for 2010, will use the poles again, I use them purely for ascents, but not all the time only when having problems, found it faster to ascend without them, I used Leki Carbon poles (non antishock) raidlights would be no good for me (I weigh just short of 99k)
I do beleive if you did get a leg injury on route they would help you continue (not that, thats advisable) Ran in Salomon XT Wings in 2009, found them very good, right balance between cushioning and grip.