Hi Everyone,
I was recently diagnosed with Chiari 1 a few weeks ago. I've been symptomatic for a while now, and Ill spare you the details.
So far, I've gotten two different opinions. One from a neurosurgeon, and a second from a neurologist. I went to the neurologist, because I wanted an opinion from someone who didn't have a vested interest in doing surgery, and whose training wasn't so centered in surgery based resolutions.
To my dismay, he immediately referred me to a neurosurgeon who is well versed in Chiari decompression surgery. He even pulled some strings to get me an immediate appointment.
Im hoping this doctor will tell me something different (like I don't need the surgery). But at the same time, I am preparing myself by reading as much as I can about Chiari, decompression surgery, and subsequent recovery, so I can make a knowledgable decision, and play an active role in the process.
What are your experiences with surgery and recovery? I'd like to hear from you, even your thoughts if you are still weighing out whether or not to have it done at all.
Thanks in advance.