chiari malformation

[christinecina]

i have been diagnosed with chiari malformation. is there a neurosurgeon who specializes in chiari malformation in the buffalo  new york are? I am 52 years old.

thank you........christine

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Thank you very much for your question; although it is quite hard for me to give you a precise opinion here without being able to examine you, but I would try to provide you some relevant information about your health concern.

In Chiari malformations, the pressure in brain increases which manifests itself as dizziness, diplopia (blurring of vision), migraine like headaches, muscle weakness, facial pain, hearing problems, and extreme fatigue. Sometimes this malformation causes dizziness while working with hands above the shoulder level (which is a common part of your military routine). Treatment of Chiari malformation depends on the form, severity and associated symptoms. No treatment is required in asymptomatic cases other than regular monitoring. Symptomatic patients may require surgery (posterior fossa decompression surgery). The requirement and pros and cons of surgery in your case should be discussed with your doctor as he knows the severity of problem. Hope this helps.

[shanmomof3]

hi we do have a chiari forum here on medhelp. Just go to the list of forums and then down to Chiari Malformation. We do have a list of drs members have used and liked. Blessings -- Shannon