The Chiari malformation in adults.

The clinical features of the Chiari Malformation in seven adult patients are presented. It is suggested that the clinical syndromes associated with this malformation, in adults, can be classified as (a) compression of structures at the level of foramen magnum (with or without radiologically demonstrable associated bony anomaly at the cranio-vertebral junction (b) increased intracranial pressure or obstructive hydrocephalus and (c) intramedullary cervical cord syndrome. The usefulness of tomography, and demonstration of the vertebro-basilar circulation in the neuro-radiologic investigation of these patients is emphasized. The surgical procedures performed in the management of these patients are outlined.