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The Scar
Probably the most distinguishing feature of
Chiari surgery is the scar on the back of the head. Note that long
hair can completely cover it.
 
Rick Labuda, 1/26/99 - 5 days post-op
 
Rick Labuda, 5/25/05 - 6+ years post-op
Anatomy
When it comes to the human body, a picture (or drawing) can be very helpful.. The following diagrams are taken from
Conquer Chiari: A
Patient's Guide, and visually represent common anatomy terms associated
with Chiari.
Skull
& Spine
Brain & Spinal Cord
Skull Base
Spinal Cord Regions
Spinal Vertebra
Layers of the Meninges
Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
Most people who undergo Chiari surgery will spend at least one night in the
Intensive Care Unit. This can be a very trying time for both the
patient and their loved ones. For the patient, the ICU can be a noisy
place with very sick, and dying, people near by. Sometimes, loved ones
are only allowed to visit for a few minutes at a time, a couple of times a
day. For loved ones, this will be their first opportunity to see the
patient since they came out of surgery. They may be shocked to see
their loved one's head wrapped, with monitors and oxygen attached to them.
The photo below is provided courtesy of George Weir,
www.georgeweir.com.
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