The Ann Conroy Trust is pleased to share new guidance on the anaesthetic management of pregnant women with Chiari 1 malformation, with or without syringomyeliaA cavity, within the spinal cord, which is filled with cerebrospinal fluid. Syringomyelia cavities come in various “shapes and sizes”, from short, spindle-shaped cavities through to long, tense cavities extending throughout the greater part of the spinal cord. See also hydromyelia. More.

A multidisciplinary group of specialist doctors from across the UK reviewed the available medical evidence to establish clearer guidance around pain relief, anaesthesia and birth for women with these conditions.

The findings are reassuring for women whose Chiari malformationAn anatomical abnormality affecting the lowermost part of brain, where it joins the spinal cord, at the top of the neck. Various sub-types are described – see under their individual names. The term hindbrain hernia is sometimes used to incorporate all forms. or syringomyeliaA cavity, within the spinal cord, which is filled with cerebrospinal fluid. Syringomyelia cavities come in various “shapes and sizes”, from short, spindle-shaped cavities through to long, tense cavities extending throughout the greater part of the spinal cord. See also hydromyelia. More causes no symptoms, or only stable and mild symptoms. The review found that epidural pain relief during labour and spinal anaesthesia for caesarean birth should not be routinely denied, and that decisions about the mode of birth should be based on obstetric considerations and the woman’s own wishes rather than the diagnosis alone.

The work has resulted in a multidisciplinary consensus statement from the Obstetric Anaesthetists’ Association, with the findings endorsed by several UK medical organisations, including the Ann Conroy Trust.

You can read more about the findings and access the full consensus statement on our Information page.