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Neuromedicine Neurological Surgery Chiari I Malformation About Chiari Malformation Anatomy of the Brain Diagnosis Neurological Exam Questions to Ask Recovery Symptoms Treatment

Chiari Type I Malformation Recovery

Usually, the patient will stay in the neurosurgical step-down unit for a day for close observation. During this time, a specially trained group of nurses will monitor the vital signs and neurologic status. The area of the neck incision is generally stiff and sore after surgery. Pain medication is usually given with a patient controlled infusion machine, and is tailored to meet the needs of the individual patient. Often, patients complain of nausea (or upset stomach) after the surgery. A medication is given if this occurs. The head of the bed is generally elevated to allow normal flow of the CSF, but the patient can lie on their back or side- whatever is most comfortable. Generally, the patient may sit in a chair by the following day, and may walk with assistance. The hospital stay is generally from three to five days. The staples will come out in seven to 10 days after surgery.

• Activities
  After discharge from the hospital the patient may be up and walking about the house for the first week. This is a time of healing, so remember, don't overdo the activity. The body needs time to rest, therefore some persons take a nap in the afternoon. Activities such as washing dishes, fixing light meals and dusting are fine. Avoid activities such as vacuuming, lifting, carrying, or anything that requires stretching of the neck muscles. Avoid reaching forward to lift anything. Do not lift anything heavier than a gallon of milk (or about five pounds).
• Hygiene
  Sponge bathing is recommended until the staples are removed. After the staples are removed in 7 to 10 days, taking a shower is ok, provided there is no scrubbing on the incision.
• Driving
  Driving should be avoided until at least the first clinic visit, and especially if any pain medications are being used. Movement of the neck may feel tight, and it is difficult to see around when driving. Do not drive if taking pain medications.
• Nutrition
  Good nutrition is an essential part of healing. Eating a balanced diet each day, including fruits and vegetables, dairy products and protein will aid in the healing process. A multivitamin is not necessary, unless one is taken normally. Remember to drink plenty of water.
• Medications
  The neck incision may be tender and stiff for several days. This is normal. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the area until the staples are removed. If any redness, swelling, heat or drainage is noticed around the incision, the neurosurgeon needs to know immediately. Most people resume their normal medications after surgery, and will also receive a prescription for pain medication after discharge. The pain medication works best if taken every six to eight hours before the pain worsens. To reduce stomach upset, take the medication with food, such as crackers or bread. The pain medication should not be necessary after about the second week. If a refill is needed on pain medication, do not wait until the bottle is empty- call the neurosurgery office at least two days before the prescription runs out. DO NOT drive if you are taking prescription pain medications.
• Notify your health care provider if:
  • There is severe pain unrelieved by medications
  • Swelling at the incision site
  • Redness, heat or drainage from the incision site
  • Fever

Healing after surgery is a gradual process. There are some good days and some days when things seem achy or sore- this is normal. Slowly increasing activity, good nutrition, avoiding strenuous lifting, adhering to instructions and maintaining a positive attitude is the best way to allow the body to recover. Concentrate and focus on the symptoms that have improved, instead of what symptoms remain. The goal is not to recover fully in the first 2 weeks, but to generally progress over the months following surgery.