Just got my cervical MRI report and relieved this guy actually measured the Chiari malformation herniation--4mm-ish, which is in the realm of what I measured (4-6) after watching a Chiari specialist lecture on it. Take THAT neurologist who said it WASN'T herniated at all and was actually ABOVE the opening! I *knew* she was flat out wrong. Geeeeeeeeez.
My brain MRI just said "mild Chiari malformation with minimal cerebral tonsilar herniation," but didn't measure what the herniation was, so the NL measured it herself. Quite wrongly, apparently. Neurologist FAIL.
Doesn't matter much, anyway, as I'm seeing my first neurosurgeon on Tuesday. This is my in-network doc; I'm getting a second opinion from a Chiari specialist on the 12th and will be going to see Dr. Batzdorf at UCLA one way or the other; just waiting to see how insurance wants to do it.
I know the size isn't impressive, but *I* at least know the size of the herniation isn't what's relevant with CM. I'm stunned how many docs don't think that's the case when it's all over the research.
Yay! You got what you need to get things done.
Drs knew about mine years ago and I presented with the classic symptoms and they took and MRI and didn't say a word about it.
I hope you get in soon with the specialist!
Take that NL!! She can now kiss your Chiari!
Lol
Hi Ms. Written,
Congratulations (if that's the right word) on your diagnosis (measurement that is). I know what a long and quite often disappointing journey it can be dealing with many of these doctors and the insurance companies, when you have a less common issue, like ours. I have been dealing with that problem, most of my life (and that has been a long time). It sounds as you are now on the right path to get some relief. The great thing for you is that you are going to see one of the best. Dr. Batzdorf and his team at UCLA are incredible, as well is UCLA an awesome place to receive care. I had experience with them both in the early 90's. After an injury in which I had many issues, including Traumatic Brain Injury, and four surgeries at UCLA. Dr. Batzdorf assisted on two of the four. My experience at UCLA was incredible, for a place of that size. I was not expecting such the personal and timely service that I received. Everyone was very professional and friendly, I never once had to wait when I had an appointment. At the time CM was not even talked about and something I had never even heard of. I moved away from California, yet continued to have issues. A few years later, my local doctors sent me to U of U in Utah. I was diagnosed with CM, and had surgery soon after. To my surprise, after being contacted by the Neuro' team in Utah, regarding my case, Dr. Batzdorf continued in contact with them throughout my surgery and time in the hospital, even giving them advice on the surgery. I surely hope your experience with him and UCLA will be as good as mine was. In addition I hope for you all the best, with your future medical care.