CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
Cranio cervical decompression
FORAMEN MAGNUM DECOMPRESSION
If you have been diagnosed with a Chiari malformation, our neurosurgeons can treat you with a decompression procedure
What is a cranio-cervical decompression?
Cranio-cervical (foramen magnum) decompression is a surgical procedure to treat Chiari malformation. This is when part of your brain protrudes into your upper spinal canal. As a result your neurosurgeon will remove small sections of bone from your skull and spine. This creates more space for the brain tissue in this area.
Need to know
Cranio-cervical decompression is a surgical procedure carried out under general anaesthetic. It is also known as foramen magnum decompression.
Your surgeon will make an incision at the top of the neck extending to the back of the head. They will then remove a small amount from the base of the skull, along with the arch of bone at the back of the first vertebra and occasionally the second.
The tough membrane covering the back of the brain and spinal cord (the dura) will then be opened and patched to create more space for the brain tissue.
Your neurosurgeon will explain your foramen magnum decompression procedure to you and answer any questions you might have.
Because you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking before surgery. You may also be asked to attend a nurse-led pre assessment clinic.
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
After your foramen magnum decompression procedure, you'll be transferred to our recovery ward, where you’ll be looked after by a specialist team. Your neurosurgeon will explain your recovery time to you and when you can expect to get back to your usual routine.
Cranio cervical decompression Consultants
Mr Parag Sayal
Neurosurgery
Mr Sinan Barazi
Neurosurgery
Mr Rohit Shetty
Orthopaedic Surgery
Mr Andraay Leung
Orthopaedic Surgery
Our Cranio cervical decompression locations
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Shard Outpatients
The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
Chiswick Outpatients
Bond House 347-353 Chiswick High Road W4 4HS London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.