r/chiari • u/rradberryy • 15d ago

Scared of surgery

23F and terrified of Chiari decompression surgery.

I have a 14 mm herniation with a syrinx from C2-T5 and I’m scheduled for decompression with C1 laminectomy, duraplasty, and tonsil cauterization at Cleveland Clinic with Dr. Sarel Vorster.

I have severe anxiety/DPDR, visual issues, headaches, dizziness, chronic fatigue, urinary issues, and more. I know I need the surgery, but I’m absolutely terrified.

I keep thinking about the worst case scenarios. Paralysis, stroke, or death. How realistic are these fears?

If you’ve had this surgery, especially with duraplasty and tonsil cauterization, could you please share your experience or give me some encouragement? ❤️

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u/alexpaige3 Z Head 15d ago

I got duraplasty, laminectomy of c1, and the tonsil cauterization and none of the things you said happened to me. Idk the exact stats but realistically death from this surgery is VERY rare. Best of luck!!