Published online Feb 6, 2021. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i4.764
Peer-review started: October 10, 2020
First decision: November 26, 2020
Revised: December 4, 2020
Accepted: December 26, 2020
Article in press: December 26, 2020
Published online: February 6, 2021
Processing time: 106 Days and 13.9 Hours
Chiari malformations encompass various radiological and clinical entities, sharing the herniation of the rhombencephalic structures through the foramen magnum as a common characteristic. They can be symptomatic or asymptomatic. The therapeutic strategies for these malformations differ on the basis of the diverse pathophysiologic processes that cause them. As Chiari malformations are caused by various pathophysiologic processes, they must be recognized promptly to select the best treatment for each single case.
Core Tip: Chiari malformations include various radiological and clinical entities sharing the herniation of the rhombencephalic structures through the foramen magnum. Depending on the symptomatology, the therapeutic strategies differ on the basis of the underlying pathophysiological processes.