Sociodemographics of Chiari I Malformation

Socioeconomic and demographic factors affect the care of patients with Chiari I malformations. This article describes the current cost of surgical treatment of Chiari I malformations and highlights how careful patient selection, treatment selection, postoperative protocols, and varying payment models may serve as cost-reducing measures. In addition, the article highlights racial disparities resulting in delayed diagnosis and greater disease progression in non-white patients, as well as the relative parity in the workup and treatment of Chiari I malformation based on insurance status. These findings illustrate the need for greater access to neurosurgical care and greater outreach to community physicians by the neurosurgical community.