How long does it take to recover from Chiari decompression surgery?

Recovery from the actual surgery varies from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your general health. After surgery, you can expect headache and neck pain from the incision that may last several weeks.

Can you still have Chiari symptoms after surgery?

After surgery, many of the symptoms of a Chiari malformation may improve, including headache, swallowing, facial pain or dizziness. But some symptoms, especially those involving memory, muscle weakness or other spinal cord issues, can take longer to resolve, and may not return to normal functioning.

Can Chiari malformation get worse after surgery?

Chiari malformations will not recur following surgery. This is because they formed during your development before birth, and your brain and skull have generally completed growth by this point. However, patients will experience differing levels of relief following surgery, and sometimes, symptoms may return.

What are the long-term effects of Chiari malformation?

Long-term pain. A pocket of spinal fluid (syrinx) in the spinal cord or brain stem. This forms over time. Life-long damage to muscles or nerves.

What can you not do after Chiari surgery?

Stop taking all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.) and blood thinners (Coumadin, aspirin, Plavix, etc.) 7 days before surgery. Stop using nicotine and drinking alcohol 1 week before and 2 weeks after surgery to avoid bleeding and healing problems.

How do you sleep after Chiari decompression surgery?

After surgery, try sleeping on your back with a small towel rolled into the small of your neck, as your neck needs to be supported during the night. Many of our patients find this a comfortable resting position. Also, consider placing a pillow under your knees to keep them slightly elevated.

Is Chiari surgery brain surgery?

What Is Chiari Malformation Decompression Surgery? Chiari decompression is a surgical treatment for a rare condition called Arnold Chiari malformation, in which the brain tissue protrudes into the spinal canal at the back of the skull. The condition may be present at birth or may develop as the skull and brain grow.

Can Chiari cause memory loss?

Cognitive dysfunction is one possible complication of Chiari malformation or the surgery to repair it. The condition and the surgery may cause physical changes to brain tissue and can lead to diffuse cognitive deficits, including problems with attention, memory, executive functioning, and information processing.

Do you have to shave your head for Chiari surgery?

Chiari decompression surgery is performed under the effect of general anesthesia. Your surgeon will place your head in a skull fixation device to hold it in place during the surgery. A strip of hair is shaved along the area of the planned incision and the scalp is prepared with an antiseptic solution.

How long does it take to recover from Chiari decompression surgery?