What is Chiari malformation?
Chiari malformation is an abnormality in the brain, which occurs when part of the cerebellum shifts downwards onto the upper part of the spinal column. This causes compression on the brain or spinal cord. Chiari malformations come in a variety of shapes and sizes, although type I is the most prevalent. The cerebellum bulges out of the typical hole at the base of the skull in type I. This condition is almost always present at birth. It's also known as type I primary Chiari malformation. However, it is frequently not discovered until a person is a teenager or early adult. This type can also appear later in life in rare situations. This is referred to as a type I acquired or secondary Chiari malformation.

What is posterior fossa decompression?
Posterior fossa decompression is a procedure that is performed in order to remove the bone at the back of the spine and skull. The aim of the procedure is to relieve compression on the brain and spinal cord, as well as to ensure that cerebrospinal fluid flows normally.

How does the procedure work?
Your surgeon will make an incision down the back of the neck so that he can access the top of the spine and the skull. The dura, or membrane around the brain and spinal cord, is opened, and a small section of the skull bone is then removed, which relieves the compression in this area. Synthetic materials are implanted in order to enlarge the dura before it is sealed. This prevents fluid from leaking. A patch may also be put in place to extend the coverage and give the brain more room. This patch could be made of synthetic material, or tissue is taken from another portion of the body. A tiny part of the spinal column may also be removed to ease pressure on the spinal cord and provide more space for it. Depending on whether you have a fluid-filled cavity (syrinx) or if you have fluid in your brain (hydrocephalus), the surgical procedure may differ. You may need a tube (shunt) to remove extra fluid if you have a syrinx or hydrocephalus. After the surgery, you will be required to stay in the hospital for a few days so that the team can monitor your recovery.

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