Diagnosed and decompression surgery recommended

[Lisawyer]

I have gone to two neurologists and the last dr, after amri, xrays and a spinal tap referred me to mayfield clinic in cincinnati, oh. After another mri , Cine mri and xrays the board of doctors recommended decompression surgery, sub occipital craniotomy with C1 and C2 lantinectomy.  My family is really against my having this surgery, but they do not live in my head. To say I have a "headache" is not an adequate description of the pain I feel on a daily basis. Frankly, my brain hurts!  Has anyone had the decompression surgery without tle lanectomy?

[actressmouse]

I second what selmaS is recommending re:  investigating co-morid conditions such as connective tissue disorders, etc.  

I actually delayed my surgery to afford some time to thoroughly investigate the  co-morbid conditions.  My diagnosis of a connective tissue disorder CHANGED the protocol for my surgery....it added a skull to c2 fusion.  Luckily, I had both procedures done at the same time in June and I'm back to work with no more headaches....and you are right...there's just no comparing a regular headache to a Chiari headache...I felt like my head was going to explode like a cork off a champagne bottle.  Please make sure all possibilities are looked into and/or ruled out to make sure you get the care you need.  

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

I know u said u had several tests and surgery is suggested , but please also rule out related conditions b4 u consider surgery, there r many that can affect how u heal post op....so it is very important to look at these.....

Check thoracic and lumbar as well as cervical spine for a syrinx, rule out tethered cord, disk issues, ICP, POTS, sleep apnea, ehlers-danlos, vitamin and mineral levels as well as ur thyroid should be checked too,

  Not sure y u ask about not having the laminectomy....they need to make room...one thing u did not mention is a dura plasty...do they plan on doing this and if so what type of patch?

[Viva001]

I had an extensive cervical laminectomy 12 yr ago, & had a PFD 4+ months ago.  I wish I'd had both at the same time.
My NS told me that cervical compression goes along with Chiari ~half the time.  It is easier to see too.

I agree w/Dana; no one reallly understands.
Best wishes.

[linnielou232]

I don't think any one wants to have this surgery, but for some it is needed.  Wishing you the best in your decision because I know it isn't an easy one to make.  Do what is best for you.
Linda :)

[Sexybare]

I have had 2 surgeries with laminectomy.
As for the surgery, its your decision. Your body, your health. My family wasn't all for it, except my dad. U need to do what u need to for u. Others will never fully understand. Hug, Dana