I tried to post to you awhile ago, but I lost the thread somehow. I didn't know what chiari malformation is, so I looked it up. I am sorry you mayhave this condition. You can also post the MRI results, and somebody will be able to help you understand them. You do need to do all the research you can on the condition, even before you go see a specialist. You want to be educated on the language of your condition so you will know what they are talking about. It is my understanding your neurologist was cancelled, and then you were referred to a neruo surgeon? Is that correct? No matter who you decide to go to, with this condition, I would want another opinion from a neurologist. Have both of these specialists look at your MRI would be a good idea. One may approach it differently than another. Surgeons like to operate, that is what they do the most of. You want to make sure that your condition warrents a surgery. I know you are scared, you have every right to feel that way. Just take some deep breaths and then start some homework and get your appointments in order. Does your family know about this? Do you have a good support team? Are you by yourself? I sure know how scarry medical problems can be. There will be people that respond to you that may know much more than I do about your situation. Looking up one site sure doesn't make me an expert. I just know if it were me, I would do some research and get all the facts you can. So sorry this is happening in your life, especially around the holidays. Hope you get more responces to your questions. ginnie