Post Craniocervical Decompression

[dellsey]

I would like to hear anyones views on the following:  Its now 7 months since my craniocervical decompression for Chairi 1 Malformation/syrinx.  I do still have the syrinx, which apparently has shrunk considerably since decompression.  Whilst I am attempting to get travel insurance the insurance co say that under the policyI am accepted for cover re the Syringomyelia/syrinx condition but that the Chairi 1 Malformation condition is excluded from cover under the policy.  Does that then mean that the decompression is not seen as removing/correcting the condition/malformation - ie will I always be viewed as having the condition/malformation?

[selmaS]

  Sorry to burst ur bubble...but, u r right that ur surgery was a success, in that ur syrinx is shrinking and that u feel well...that is most important....


  : )

Keep us posted on ur travel plans

  "selma"

[dellsey]

Hi - thank you both for your prompt replies.  I can see what both of you are saying re the C1 Malformation bit always being there........  I have thought about this a lot myself .......Don't know if you realise but I live in the UK.  I am looking at getting travel insurance for a trip abroad and I just want to feel confident that I am covered should any medical emergencies/payouts arise during the trip (obviously, this can be quite costly).  I just thought that perhaps I might now be classed as 'Chiari-free' now that I'm 7 months post decompression and that the aim of the surgery is obviously working/been successful, ie the syrinx in my cord is shrinking - if you see what I mean.  Anyhow, nevermind - but thanks for the comments.  Looks like once a Chiarian, always a Chiarian eh?

[mdavid924]

Yes, because the decompression is not a cure, but a treatment to alleviate the symptoms. I, too, have been rejected for life insurance and disability insurance applications. So I just gave up and just saved the money in the bank...I figured, at least I'll have some money if I need it. Don;t you have a travel insurance with your work benefits? I use that when we travel. Check with your benefits package.

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome to the Chiari/Syringomyelia Forum.

From what I understand and believe once u have chiari u always have chiari...the surgery was only to open the flow of CSF...and give us some more room...but our skulls were malformed, and it was a congenital condition....u can not get rid of something like that...only treat it to help avoid further issues.

I am not sure about travelers insurance?.....May I ask Y u r getting it and y this is an issue?

  We r happy to have u join us, but not happy for  the reasons that bring u.

   "selma"