hind brain herniation

Hello, I have had several MRI scans and have a hind brain herniation. Symptoms are manifesting over the past year although the MRI scan shows no changes. Due to symptoms the surgeon has offered me decompression of the herniation. Sounds scary and dont know if I should hev this done. Could my symptoms get worse if I dont have the op. Any general advice would be helpful. Thankyou.

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

Your brain herniation may increase over a period of time. The normal CSF flow is also blocked to some extent by the herniation. A decompression surgery is beneficial. There are no serious complications. All that is done is a part of the bone margin is removed so that more space s available to accommodate the herniated parts. You can go ahead with the surgery.

Regards

[BretB]

Did your symptoms start gradually, or acutely?  How did you orginally find out?  I have a small herniation as well, and this was discovered after a mild head trauma MRI. I had many problems after the accident, and the symptoms seemed to be related to chiari.  After 7 months, they dissappeared.  I get them back after a virus which is odd.  If the herniation can grow, I may have to get mine checked.  At least the sugery sounds like a solution for you.

[alibali]

My symptoms have been gradual over the years.I didnt know until 2years ago I had this herniation. It does answer a lot of questions as to why I have had "stange" sensations, symptoms. But recently the symptoms have increased causing me to be out of work. Not even the most simplest of tasks can I do. I have a consultation soon with the neurologist and see what he has to say. I cant take the chance on things getting worse on their own or from getting an operation. Will let you know. Appointment is this month.

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

Do you have the Chiari malformation? Have the doctors mentioned anything about it?

I suppose most of the queries will be answered when you visit the neurologist. Meanwhile, you can take care not to exert yourself too much. Avoid activities such as extreme bending of the neck forwards and coughing vigorously.

Regards

[BretB]

I just got back from my doc visit yesterday, and they have me scheduled for an MRI next week.  I had one back in 2000 which revealed the chiari malformation, although minimul.  They want to compare it now to back then to see if things have progressed.  One theory is that the head pressure I get with a very high fever can "push" the brain into the chiari malformation.  Curious what people have to say on that one...

I do get a very lightheaded feeling when I sneeze, and have soreness on the back of the neck which sounds suspicious.

Bret