Diagnosis

The evaluation of patients begins with a detailed clinical questionnaire. A team of nurse practitioners supervises the data entry, scheduling of tests and physician consultations, travel arrangements and housing. The workup is exhaustive but usually completed over a two-day period.

The goals of the diagnostic workup are to:

• Establish the correct diagnosis.
• Educate the patient and answer their questions.
• Provide a list of management options.
• Discuss the preferred operative technique if surgery is required.

The development of a multidisciplinary approach to address the medical and surgical needs of patients combined with an active research program has elevated the Chiari Institute to the highest level of international recognition.