Chiari Lifeline: FAQ about Surgery & Hospitalization (By TCI)

"Welcome To Chiari Lifeline."

Chiari Malformation is a serious neurological disorder where the cerebellum, the bottom part of the brain, descends out of the skull and crowds the spinal cord, putting pressure on both the brain and spine. There are over 100 reported symptoms that are caused from CM. Those most common include; severe headaches, fatigue, general imbalance, memory problems, visual disturbances, dizziness, just to name a few.

CM affects about 1 in 1,000 people and this number continues to grow. Still many are left suffering and go years without a proper diagnosis as many doctors are yet unfamiliar with this condition.

If you or a loved one is affected by Chiari please visit the links provided below. Together, we can make a difference!

September 30, 2008

FAQ about Surgery & Hospitalization (By TCI)

Part I:

"How long can I expect to be hospitalized?
Posterior Fossa Decompression/Revision: 5-7 days
Craniocervical Fusion: 6-8 days
Ventical Peritoneal Shunt Placement/Revision: 1-2 days
**Above are estimated lengths of stay without complications**

When can I shower? Wash my hair?
You may shower at any point as long as you do not get surgical incisions/staples/sutures wet 48hrs after removal. You may wash your hair with a gentle shampoo 48hrs after staple/suture removal.

When will staples/sutures come out?
New incisions: 7 post operative days
Old surgical incisions: 9-11 post operative days
EDS pts: timing varies; you will receive specific instructions upon discharge.
**You do not need to remain in the hospital for staple/suture removal, arrangements for removal can be made with your physician at home, unless otherwise instructed**

When can i get out of bed?
The day after surgery you should be out of bed and sitting in the chair a minimum 30 minutes 2-3 times that day, increasing your time out of bed daily until discharge."