Has anyone ever died from Chiari malformation surgery?

No surgery is without risks. General complications of any surgery include bleeding, infection, blood clots, stroke, reactions to anesthesia, and death (rare). Specific complications related to a Chiari decompression craniectomy and duraplasty may include: Risk of head and neck pain is variable.

Is Arnold Chiari life threatening?

In some people, Chiari malformation can become a progressive disorder and lead to serious complications. In others, there may be no associated symptoms, and no intervention is necessary. The complications associated with this condition include: Hydrocephalus.

Which is the most serious form of Chiari malformation?

The term Arnold-Chiari malformation (named after two pioneering researchers) is specific to Type II malformations. Type III is very rare and the most serious form of Chiari malformation. In Type III, some of the cerebellum and the brain stem stick out, or herniate, through an abnormal opening in the back of the skull.

Can a baby with Chiari malformation have spina bifida?

The disorder can occur with any type of Chiari malformation, but is most commonly associated with Type II. Spina bifida is the incomplete closing of the backbone and membranes around the spinal cord. In babies with spina bifida, the bones around the spinal cord do not form properly, causing defects in the lower spine.

How is Decompression performed for Chiari malformation?

Decompression is performed under general anesthesia. It consists of removing the back of the foramen magnum and often the back of the first few vertebrae to the point where the cerebellar tonsils end. This provides more space for the brainstem, spinal cord and descended cerebellar components.

How are the tonsils removed from Chiari malformation?

In some instances the surgeon may use a procedure called electrocautery to remove the cerebellar tonsils, allowing for more free space. These tonsils do not have a recognized function and can be removed without causing any known neurological problems.