Pathologies Chiari malformation

Our team is a pioneer in minimally invasive techniques for the treatment of Chiari malformation. We are at the forefront and always seeking new alternatives that provide better solutions for our patients.

Chiari Malformation Type I:

A heterogeneous group of pathologies that present a herniation of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum (main hole at the base of the skull) greater than 5 mm, with impaired CSF circulation. Clinical manifestations depend on the degree of involvement, the presence of brainstem compression, hydrocephalus, and syringomyelia (fluid accumulation in the spinal cord). Between 15% and 30% are asymptomatic and are even detected incidentally.
The most common symptom is headache (70%), especially in the neck, which worsens with exertion (e.g., coughing, exercise). It is generally associated with some of the following chronic symptoms: weakness and/or sensory disturbances in the limbs, apneas (respiratory pauses), swallowing disturbances, fainting, vertigo, and scoliosis.
If you experience these clinical manifestations, please contact our team immediately.
Specific magnetic resonance imaging of the craniocervical junction and spine should be performed. This should be supplemented with neurophysiological studies (polysomnography and evoked potentials of the four limbs and trunk).
If treatment is required, surgery is indicated. Our team specializes in minimally invasive decompression techniques for Chiari Type I patients that avoid brain damage, reducing treatment risks and allowing for a faster recovery.

Chiari Malformation Type II:

It is characterized by the prolapse of the medullary-bulbar junction, the pons, the fourth ventricle, and the medulla, with the cerebellar tonsils frequently descending below the foramen magnum. It is generally associated with myelomeningocele (MMC). Symptoms present at an early age and are primarily due to brainstem compression and lower cranial nerve dysfunction, with dysphagia, apnea, aspiration, stridor, motor weakness progressing to quadriparesis, opisthotonos, among others.

These are complex patients who require a highly experienced multidisciplinary team to provide the best diagnosis and treatment. If you have any questions, please contact our team.