What is a Chiari decompression surgery?
What is a Chiari decompression surgery?
What Is Chiari Malformation Decompression Surgery? Chiari decompression is a surgical treatment for a rare condition called Arnold Chiari malformation, in which the brain tissue protrudes into the spinal canal at the back of the skull. The condition may be present at birth or may develop as the skull and brain grow.
How long is recovery from Chiari decompression surgery?
Recovery from the actual surgery varies from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your general health. After surgery, you can expect headache and neck pain from the incision that may last several weeks.
How much does a Chiari decompression surgery cost?
The surgical treatment rate has been estimated at 2.5 per 100,000 patient-years in patients under 20 years old [4]. Unadjusted cost estimates for this surgery range from US$7,000 to US$30,000 for a single admission [5].
What can you not do after Chiari decompression surgery?
In the weeks following surgery, you can gradually return to normal activities, but you may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise. Walking can help with circulation and muscle tone while you recover.
How do you sleep after Chiari decompression surgery?
After surgery, try sleeping on your back with a small towel rolled into the small of your neck, as your neck needs to be supported during the night. Many of our patients find this a comfortable resting position. Also, consider placing a pillow under your knees to keep them slightly elevated.
What are the risks of Chiari malformation surgery?
Risks of surgery include excessive bleeding, cerebrospinal fluid leak, infection, no relief of symptoms, paralysis, problems swallowing, abnormal eye movements and anesthesia complications. The family and the neurosurgeon decide if surgery is the best option.
Can a syrinx be removed?
The goal of surgery is to remove the pressure the syrinx places on your spinal cord and to restore the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid. This can help improve your symptoms and nervous system function. The type of surgery you’ll need depends on the cause of syringomyelia.