Chiari I malformation and craniosynostosis

Abstract

Hindbrain hernia is often seen in various craniosynostoses. Although these can be seen in single-suture craniosynostosis, syndromic craniosynostosis has a greater risk of having Chiari malformation type I (CM I). In particular, patients with Apert and Crouzon syndromes should be investigated for CM I. Today, simultaneous or consecutive cranial vault remodeling and suboccipital decompression are standard treatments in these complex patients with combined craniosynostosis and CM I, but further studies are needed because of the complexity of surgical care.