Chiari Malformation Surgery

Chiari malformation, also referred to as the Arnold-chiari malformation or cerebellomedullary malformation syndrome, is a medical condition characterized by the protrusion of brain tissues into the spinal canal. This generally happens when a part of the skull, either small or abnormally shaped, presses into the brain and forces it downwards. As a result of this, the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid, i.e. the fluid meant to protect the brain and spinal cord, is disrupted. Eventually, this disruption either hampers the signal transmission between the brain and the body or leads to build up of fluid in the brain - both of which are harmful conditions.

Chiari Malformation Treatment - Surgery

The treatment of this condition includes regular monitoring, medication and surgery, depending on a range of factors, including the form of the ailment, its severity and the symptoms associated with it. In some cases treatment is not needed at all, and at times the person may not even realize that he is suffering from this disorder, unless the symptoms become more severe. The surgical method of treatment is most often used to treat symptomatic chiari malformation.

Chiari malformation is basically divided into 2 types - chiari malformation type I, which develops as the body grows, and chiari malformation type II, which is congenital, (meaning present at birth). In case of chiari type I, the malformation is caused due to abnormal size of the skull, whereas chiari II, the pediatric form of malformation, can be attributed to an underlying medical condition referred to as myelomeningocele.

The surgery is targeted at stopping the progression of anatomical changes in the brain and the spinal canal. In posterior fossa craniectomy (AKA posterior fossa decompression) a small portion of the bone at the back of the skull is removed, in order to create more space for the brain. Subsequently, the dura (the brain covering) is opened and a new patch is sewn into it to make it bigger and provide more room for the brain. The material used as a 'patch' may be an artificial material or a tissue harvested from leg or the neck. Other than easing the symptoms of chiari malformation, the surgery also reduces the pressure on the cerebellum as well as the spinal cord and simultaneously restores the flow of the spinal fluid.

Possible Complications
Any surgery in this part of the body has several risks associated with it, chiari malformation surgery is no exception. Risks involved in this case exist in plenty, and the most prominent ones are excessive bleeding, cerebrospinal fluid leak, anesthesia complications and paralysis. The person may also experience problems in swallowing and abnormal eye movements. The chances of infection also persist, and hence the person has to be keep himself updated about the prognosis and development.

In case of chiari malformation surgery, recovery time may vary from individual to individual depending on several factors. One has to weigh the possible benefits and risks, and consult the doctor to check whether this surgery is the best alternative for him or not. On an average the surgery itself is completed in 2 to 3 hours, and the person is hospitalized for 2 to 4 days. The cost of this surgery will vary depending on the severity of the condition, the hospital chosen, etc. Other than this, regular checkups and symptom monitoring tracks the healing procedure in the patient, and following the advice given by the doctor properly ensures speedy recovery.