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Chiari I Malformation and Associated Syringomyelia

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Textbook of Pediatric Neurosurgery

Abstract

Chiari I malformation (CIM) is a common reason for referral to the pediatric neurosurgical clinic; however, the diagnostic criteria for this chapter are imprecise, its etiology is variable, and the treatment options are diverse. In the past, CIM was considered a discrete pathological entity that required a uniform approach to treatment. It is now increasingly recognized that a critical and logical approach to the evaluation of children with this diagnosis is essential in order to select, not only those children who might be suitable for surgical treatment but also to determine the most appropriate surgical strategy. While good outcomes can be anticipated in the majority of children treatment failures and complication rates are not insignificant. In this chapter, contemporary opinions on the etiology of CIM are discussed. The typical and atypical modes of clinical presentation are reviewed and an algorithmic approach to management based on current evidence is suggested.

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Thompson, D.N.P. (2017). Chiari I Malformation and Associated Syringomyelia. In: Di Rocco, C., Pang, D., Rutka, J. (eds) Textbook of Pediatric Neurosurgery. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-31512-6_125-1

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