Chiari Malformations in North Carolina

What is a Chiari malformation?

A Chiari malformation is an irregularity where brain tissue extends into the spinal canal, located at the junction of the brain and spinal cord at the back of the head.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms vary based on the specific type of Chiari malformation. Many individuals with type I may not exhibit symptoms and might not necessitate treatment. For those who do, symptoms typically emerge in late childhood or adulthood. The hallmark indication of this condition is intense headaches at the rear of the head, often triggered by actions like coughing, sneezing, or straining. Additional symptoms can include neck discomfort, issues with balance, impaired hand coordination, tingling or numbness in the extremities, dizziness, difficulty swallowing, visual disturbances, or speech impairments.

Diagnosis of Chiari Malformation

The more severe variations of the condition, namely types II and III, are usually diagnosed through prenatal ultrasound or shortly after birth. Type I can be identified through a physical examination and imaging studies, typically involving magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. In cases where symptoms are absent, the condition might come to light during the evaluation or management of an unrelated medical problem.

Treatment Approaches for Chiari Malformation

Some symptomatic instances of Chiari malformation can be managed with pain relief medications. Alternatively, surgical intervention might be necessary in certain cases to alleviate pressure on the brain and spinal cord, either to mitigate symptoms or halt the progression of central nervous system damage. A surgical procedure called posterior fossa decompression involves the removal of a small section of the skull bone to create more space for the brain. Additionally, a portion of the spinal cord might also be removed.

The surgeons at Neurosciences & Spine Center can help guide you in choosing the most suitable treatment course. To schedule an appointment with Neurosciences & Spine Center, please contact 919-784-7550 .

Next Day Appointments Available

The surgeons at Neurosciences & Spine Center can help you decide on the treatment that’s best for you. They specialize in minimally invasive spine surgery and are experienced in diagnosing and treating disc disorders and disease, using the newest techniques for relieving pain and returning you to an active lifestyle. To make an appointment at Neurosciences & Spine Center call 919-784-7550.

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Nat Lambeth

I am a former patient of Dr Koolevelt, hate he retired am of the opinion he is a great doctor. I had a very good result from my surgery last April. I have encountered a new problem. I called and got an appoint ment to see Daniel Ingram he to is great. He listen to my complaint(s), then examined me. He sent me for xrays, and gave me a recomended treatment plan. Within hours of having my xrays he called me back with the preliminary results. He said he would get me seen for an injection to rule out possible other issues. He is a warm friendly professional. Great bedside manner. You don't find medical professionals of his quality in every practice. UNCRex Neuroscience is lucky to have him.

Dennis Hlad

Everyone was pleasant & efficient. Daniel Ingram, PA went over the previous MRI showing me where the problem is. Then we discussed the options. He suggested if the symptoms changed to contact him.

Jill Schade

I have known Dr Koeleveld and his team over 19 years and due to the nature of my back history L5/S1. There is NO one else I would trust but Dr K, Dan, Judy and his wonderful team. I should have written this sooner as I am 2 years post fusion and doing wonderful. Their expertise, care and compassion is second to none.

Katy TwoJsMom

Amazing. Mom needed nerve ablation on the back. She has a pacemaker and these folks were wonderful.

Kristian Brock

Best experience I had even Surgery went great, Dr.Lacin knew exactly what needed to be done.

Catherine Raspet

When I had stenosis quite a while ago, he performed surgery,and I woke up with no pain. What an extreme relief.

Raymond Baule

Great job Dr. Buttram!

Whitney Moore

John A. Engler, MD was amazing! I've been having back pain for years (had surgery in 2011) and was good for awhile. However I started going to a pain management clinic 3 years ago when it started up again. After an incident that cause me to go the the ER I was referred to Dr. Engler. He was extremely nice and informative. He took the time to explain everything to me. Extremely satisfied with the care I received will update after everything is said and done.

Mary Roby

I am now pain free and well on my way to a full recovery thanks to Dr. Lacin. Both he and his staff are knowledgeable, compassionate, caring and professional. Dr. Lacin performed back surgery on me as well as my mom and we will both be forever grateful.

Jeff Wiblitzhouser

Dr. Lacin's skill and dedication gave me a new lease on life. As a designer and builder of custom homes and remodels, I depend on my ability to get in and out of houses, tight spaces, etc., and my back had gotten to the point where the pain was intolerable. I didn't hire Dr. Lacin to tell me what I wanted to hear, I hired him to help me regain functionality. Thank You Dr. Lacin and your staff!!

Joann

My primary care doctor referred me to Dr Engler for a second opinion. First, I would like to say I would highly recommend seeing Dr Engler. He was patient, very thorough, and really took the time listening to me when I explained the pain I been experiencing. I was so relieved when he immediately pinpointed the cause of my pain. Dr Engler not only told me my options, but he explained them in-dept to me, and answered all my questions. I was truly satisfied with my visit. I Couldn't have asked for a better doctor.

Sharon Greene

Superb care from Dr Lacin and staff. Dr Lacin repaired my cervical disc, and with each visit I felt as if my care was most important to him and he Treated me like I was his only patient. Great bedside manner and Excellent surgeon. Highly recommended!!!

Brooke Weisner

Dr. Buttram was amazing, he helped me recover from a severely herniated disc, which ultimately had to have surgery on. his staff is super sweet and friendly, I would recommend him to anyone who is having back pain.