Testing & Imaging

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical test used at The Wisconsin Chiari Center to determine the specific parameters of each patient’s Chiari malformation.

MRI imaging uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the cranial region. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, printed or copied to CD. MRI does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays).

Currently, MRI is the most sensitive imaging test of the head (particularly in the brain) in routine clinical practice.

For more information, please go to:  http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?PG=headmr

Blood Tests

There are many other conditions with symptoms that mimic those of Chiari Malformation.  In order to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms, we will conduct a panel of blood tests.

Neurodiagnostics

Neurodiagnostics is the study of electrical activity from the brain and nervous system.  In order to give you the most accurate diagnosis, you will undergo a series of neurodiagnostic tests at The Wisconsin Chiari Center.  These tests will help us determine if your symptoms are being caused by Chiari malformation, syringomyelia, cervical stenosis, tethered cord syndrome, or another condition.

Neurodiagnostics are necessary in diagnosing your condition as some symptoms may arise from the autonomic nervous system which cannot easily be examined. The autonomic nervous system is that part of the nervous system that regulates key functions of the body including the heart rate and rhythm, the smooth muscles, such as the muscles of the intestinal tract, and the glands such as the sweat gland. Neurodiagnostics can provide objective measure of autonomic nervous system function.