Everyone has been recommending that I find a NS that specializes in Chiari. But how?? I have googled and searched until I am bleary-eyed! So many NS state they treat Chiari, but how do you know if they are really a specialist? Is it truly trial and error? Or is there some search terms that I just haven't figured out yet?
Hi...
Emmaline pointed you in the right direction..did you find the TAB she was talking about?
My NS is not a Chiari specialist...he is actually a brain tumor specialist. However, I personally went with my gut, got a 2nd opinion who happened to agree with my NS suggestion of decompression surgery. My case was not complicated..meaning, I had no syrinx, no tetherd cord..I had a 5-6mm herniation which was casing many symptoms.
I was impressed by my NS as he ordered a CINE MRI fairly quickly..that is a test to see if your CSF is blocked or in my case 'diminished'...I was also given a lot of his time during my office visits ...He has great credentials and is well respected...He explained the surgery itself to me in length. Though not a Chiari Specialist per sue..I know I made the right choice in NS's.
Trust your gut..make sure all your questions are answered...
Keep us posted on how you are making out.