Chiari Malformation Type 1

What does Chiari Malformation Type 1 even mean? My best friend Alexa has had debilitating migraines for the 12+ years Ive known her. These have meant time off work, missed social events, only wanting to be in a dark room and to sleep, sometimes for days! After all these years she finally has an answer.. Chiari Malforation Type 1. This occurs when the section of your skull containing a part of your brain (cerebellum) is too small or is deformed, thus putting pressure on and crowding your brain. The lower part of the cerebellum (tonsils) is displaced into your upper spinal canal. If untreated a cyst could form on the spinal cord resulting in her becoming paralysed. This may not happen today, not tomorrow, not this year but there's no way we can run the risk. The only way to relieve the pressure on her brain is a serious operation where they basically remove a piece of her skull and top vertebrae, cut out a layer of her brain and insert a sling. The only way to have the surgery done is privately which comes at a cost... a big cost! As Alexa’s diagnosis is on the extreme scale the specialists involved have recommended this be done in Auckland.