Cerebral oedema following EVD insertion for delayed hydrocephalus after foramen magnum decompression in Chiari I malformation

Abstract

Case report. A case of Chiari I malformation is reported, in which foramen magnum decompression was followed by delayed onset of acute hydrocephalus after a week. Initial treatment of the hydrocephalus was further complicated by severe cerebral oedema.

Discussion. A short survey of the literature suggests that both complications are extremely uncommon. The possible mechanism of development of cerebral oedema through stretch of the cerebral vasculature before ventricular decompression is discussed. This report further adds to the list of complications following surgery for Chiari malformations.