What type of surgery is done for Chiari malformation?
In the most common surgery for Chiari malformation, called posterior fossa decompression, the surgeon removes a small section of bone in the back of the skull, relieving pressure by giving the brain more room. In many cases, the covering of the brain, called the dura mater, may be opened.
Do they shave your head for Chiari malformation surgery?
Chiari decompression surgery is performed under the effect of general anesthesia. Your surgeon will place your head in a skull fixation device to hold it in place during the surgery. A strip of hair is shaved along the area of the planned incision and the scalp is prepared with an antiseptic solution.
Can Chiari malformation come back after surgery?
6 days ago
Chiari malformations will not recur following surgery. This is because they formed during your development before birth, and your brain and skull have generally completed growth by this point. However, patients will experience differing levels of relief following surgery, and sometimes, symptoms may return.
How long is Chiari surgery?
The operation takes about 3 to 4 hours. The hospital stay following a Chiari decompression is generally 3 to 4 days. An experienced pediatric ICU and pediatrics team will ensure that the common postoperative symptoms of headache, neck stiffness, nausea and vomiting are well-controlled.
Is Chiari surgery painful?
You can expect to experience pain and discomfort, especially when turning or lifting your head, so you’ll be prescribed medications for pain and muscle spasms. After Chiari malformation surgery, fatigue and weakness, and headaches are common.
How big is the incision for Chiari malformation surgery?
A 3-inch incision is made down the middle of the neck. Colored areas represent bone to be removed. The surgeon removes a small section of skull at the back of your head (suboccipital craniectomy). In some cases the bony arch of the C1 vertebra may be removed (laminectomy).