Hi,
Chiari 1 malformation is usually not associated with brain swelling. Patients complaints of headaches, neck pain, urinary frequency and progressive lower extremity.
Pineal gland cyst is swelling in pineal gland, which is located in midline.
Any surgery is indicated only if there is increase in size and also there are symptoms due to raised pressure in brain like vomiting, irritability, seizures, headache, eye pain, double vision etc.
Hope this helps you.
Hi.
The presence of Chiari I malformation and pineal gland cyst on MRI are not immediate indications of surgery. Usually, it is only when symptoms are severe and disease progression is significant that surgery is done.
As with all surgical procedures, surgery for Chiari I malformations as well as pineal gland cysts has its pros and cons. You should discuss the treatment options with your neurologist.
Good luck.