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Hydrocephalus in Chiari Malformations and Other Craniovertebral Junction Abnormalities

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Pediatric Hydrocephalus

Abstract

The craniovertebral junction (CVJ), or the craniocervical junction as it is otherwise known, is composed of the occipital bone that surrounds the foramen magnum, the atlas vertebrae, the axis vertebrae, and their associated ligaments and musculature. CVJ abnormalities are a varied group of conditions with different etiologies and have the potential to affect CSF flow by fourth ventricular outlet obstruction, venous flow abnormalities, or other mechanisms. Here we review the pathogenesis, presentation, and imaging characteristics of Chiari I and Chiari II malformations. We describe the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus associated with these conditions as well as the management strategy and treatment options. In addition, we describe other CVJ abnormalities associated with hydrocephalus and the optimal treatment strategy. These include basilar invagination, basilar impression, and achondroplasia.

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Correspondence to Brian J. Dlouhy .

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Dlouhy, B.J., Menezes, A.H. (2018). Hydrocephalus in Chiari Malformations and Other Craniovertebral Junction Abnormalities. In: Cinalli, G., Ozek, M., Sainte-Rose, C. (eds) Pediatric Hydrocephalus. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-31889-9_66-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-31889-9_66-1

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  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-31889-9

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