What is Arnold Chiari Syndrome?
Arnold Chiari syndrome is a neurological condition in which the brain stem hangs lower than normal into the spinal canal. This anomaly can block communication between the brain and the spinal cord, leading to serious symptoms such as headaches, balance problems, muscle weakness, paralysis, difficulty swallowing and dizziness. Arnold Chiari syndrome is a congenital disorder, sometimes caused by abnormalities in the structure of the head. Surgery is commonly used to treat this syndrome to improve patients’ quality of life.
How is Arnold Chiari Syndrome Surgery Performed?
The treatment of Arnold Chiari syndrome depends on the severity of the patient’s symptoms and how much the brain stem has prolapsed. Surgery is performed to relieve pressure on the brain stem and relieve pressure on the spinal cord. This surgical intervention usually consists of the following steps:
- Preparation and Anesthesia:
The patient is given general anesthesia. The procedure starts with a small incision in the spine or skull. - Widening the skull and spinal canal:
The surgeon widens the base of the skull and the spinal canal so that the brain stem is in a normal position. In some cases, some of the bones pressing on the spinal cord may be removed. - Removal of cysts or other disabilities:
If cysts (e.g. syringomyelia) have formed with Arnold Chiari syndrome, these cysts are also surgically removed. - Postoperative Monitoring and Rehabilitation:
After surgery, patients’ recovery is carefully monitored. Physical therapy and neurological rehabilitation can help speed up recovery.
Requirements and Symptoms of Arnold Chiari Syndrome Surgery
Arnold Chiari syndrome surgery is usually necessary if
- Severe Pain If severe pain in the head and neck region becomes resistant to treatment, surgery is considered.
- Neurological Symptoms: Symptoms such as dizziness, loss of balance, muscle weakness or paralysis can seriously affect the patient’s quality of life.
- Spinal Cord and Brain Stem Compression: When the brain stem prolapses into the spinal canal and presses on the nerves, it can lead to serious neurological problems.
Why Metropol Health Group?
Metropol Health Group offers quality service with experienced neurosurgeons and expert staff in the treatment of Arnold Chiari syndrome and similar neurological diseases. With state-of-the-art equipment and microsurgical techniques, we provide our patients with the least invasive treatment methods. We manage the recovery process safely and effectively with our detailed pre- and post-operative follow-up service.
