18 months post Chiari 1 Decompression-still troubles

My Chiari Malformation was a 14mm herniation. I had the decompression along with a c1 and c2 laminectomy. I was home for a few days post surgery when CSF was leaking out of my incision. I had a large leak from the dura graft along with meningitis. Basically, I had a reaction to the dura seal so my NS had to go and do an additional surgery to remove the duraseal and stitch the patch back in place.  Still had a leak so I had a spinal drain (in hospital for 4 weeks) Once I recovered from my surgery I was amazed how I could laugh and cough and not feel like I was standing on my head 24/7.  I did however, notice how painful my neck had become and continues to be painful today, but what bothers me the most is how I can no longer lay on the back of my head.  I immediately feel a fullness and have stabbing pain on the left side of my head. I also become extremely nauseous and dizzy.  Does anyone else have this problem post op? (It took me a long time to ask my question......thanks in advance for your patience!)

[selmaS]

Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

I also have to have my head on a very soft pillow and turned slightly...I do not like the feeling if I am flat on the scar either.

I did not have a leak or the issues with my patch...but I know we do have members here who have.


I am sorry u had to go thru all that , but glad to hear u finally do have some benefits from the surgery...it is great to be able to laugh with out pain : )

Glad to have u as part of our chiari family here,....a very caring and supportive group of people here.

"selma"