Chiari Malformation Treatment in Bangalore
Expert posterior fossa decompression for Chiari malformation at Bangalore's top neurosurgery centres.
Chiari malformation is a structural defect in which brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. The most common type (Type 1) involves the cerebellar tonsils herniating below the foramen magnum, disrupting CSF flow and causing a range of symptoms including headaches, neck pain, and syringomyelia (fluid-filled cavity in the spinal cord). Surgical decompression — enlarging the space at the back of the skull — relieves pressure and stabilises or improves symptoms in most patients.
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Symptoms of Chiari Malformation
Headaches at the back of the head, often triggered by coughing, sneezing, or straining
Neck pain and stiffness
Balance problems and dizziness
Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
Weakness in the arms or legs
Difficulty swallowing
Sleep apnoea
Scoliosis (in children)
Causes & Risk Factors
Congenital — small posterior fossa (skull base) not providing enough space for the cerebellum
Acquired — from injury, infection, or conditions that drain spinal fluid
Genetic factors — family history of Chiari malformation
Associated with syringomyelia, hydrocephalus, and spina bifida
Treatment Options
Chiari Malformation Treatment in Bangalore
Bangalore's top neurosurgery hospitals offer the full spectrum of treatment options for Chiari Malformation.
Observation
Asymptomatic Chiari malformations discovered incidentally may be monitored with regular MRI without surgery.
Posterior Fossa Decompression
The standard surgical treatment: removing a small piece of bone at the back of the skull (suboccipital craniectomy) and often the back of the first cervical vertebra (C1 laminectomy) to enlarge the space.
Duraplasty
Opening and patching the dura (brain covering) with a graft to further expand the space and improve CSF flow. Often combined with posterior fossa decompression.
Syrinx Treatment
If syringomyelia is present, decompression usually causes the syrinx to shrink. Rarely, a separate syrinx shunt is needed.
Why Choose Bangalore for Chiari Malformation Treatment?
Bangalore's neurosurgery centres have experience with Chiari malformation surgery, including complex cases with associated syringomyelia and craniovertebral junction abnormalities. Intraoperative ultrasound to assess CSF flow restoration and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring are standard at top centres.
Top Hospitals in Bangalore
Cost of Chiari Malformation Surgery in Bangalore
Posterior fossa decompression with duraplasty: ₹2–5 lakh at top Bangalore hospitals. Cost includes surgery, anaesthesia, and 3–5 day hospital stay.
Recovery Timeline
Post-operative monitoring. Headache and neck pain managed with medications. Wound care.
Rest. Avoid strenuous activity. Gradual improvement in headaches and balance.
Headaches typically improve significantly. Syrinx begins to shrink (confirmed on MRI at 3 months).
MRI to assess syrinx resolution. Most patients have significant symptom improvement.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Chiari Malformation surgery in Bangalore.