Chiari Decompression Outcomes Using Ligamentum Nuchae Harvest and Duraplasty in Pediatric Patients with Chiari I Malformation

Abstract

The choice of graft material for duraplasty in Chiari decompressions remains controversial. This chapter presents a detailed technique for harvesting ligamentum nuchae, as well as the clinical and radiographic outcomes of this technique, in a case series. The authors conducted a retrospective study evaluating the outcomes of Chiari type I decompression and duraplasty done in children aged 0–18 years at a single institution from 2013 to 2016. In the study period, 25 Chiari decompressions with ligamentum nuchae graft duraplasty were done at the institution. The rates of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak were similar to established techniques of autologous and artificial grafts, with similarly successful outcomes.