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Patient Education

Diagnosis of CM and SM

Widespread use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scans) has resulted in more rapid diagnosis and has also uncovered relationships between the disorders. An MRI of the spine may reveal SM, and one of the craniocervical junction may detect CM. While the disorders do not necessarily occur in tandem, a comprehensive examination may uncover CM and SM, as well as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), scoliosis, tethered cord, spina bifida, arachnoiditis, or other related conditions.

Did you know… that approximately 350,000 Americans have CM? Many also have SM, and others have SM from other causes.

MRI

Before and After Surgery

Chiari malformation

Before surgery
MRI scan, chiari malformation, before surgery. Cerebellar tonsils are herniated through the foramen magnum.
  1. Cerebellar tonsils are herniated through the foramen magnum
After surgery
MRI scan, chiari malformation, after surgery. Posterior fossa has been decompressed, allowing for more room for the tonsils.
  1. Posterior fossa has been decompressed, allowing for more room for the tonsils

Chiari with syringomyelia

Before surgery
MRI scan, chiari with syringomyelia, before surgery. Cerebellar tonsils have herniated into the spinal canal, impeding the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Syrinx in the spinal cord.
  1. Cerebellar tonsils have herniated into the spinal canal, impeding the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
  2. Syrinx in the spinal cord
After surgery
MRI scan, chiari with syringomyelia, after surgery. CSF flow has been restored. Syrinx has collapsed.
  1. CSF flow has been restored
  2. Syrinx has collapsed
Two patients, each shown before and after surgery.
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