OBJECTIVETo explore the surgical approaches, microsurgical techniques and therapeutic effect of modified cistern magna reconstruction for treating of syringomyelia with Chiari malformations.

METHODSThe clinical data of 35 patients with syringomyelia complicated by Chiari malformations were retrospectively reviewed, and the patients' chief complaints, presenting symptoms, neurological and radiographic findings, surgical approaches, outcomes, and complications were analyzed.

RESULTSThe radiographs revealed type I Chiari in 18 and type II Chiari malformations in these patients. Surgical treatment resulted in symptomatic improvements in 29 patients, and 6 patients showed no obvious changes in the symptoms after the surgery; 3 patients received subarachnoid shunting for syringomyelia. During the follow-up for a mean of 2 years, 32 patients showed obvious clinical improvement, and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated complete spontaneous resolution of syringobulbia in 25 patients.

CONCLUSIONModified cistern magna reconstruction relieves brainstem compression and restores the pulsatile flow of the cerebrospinal fluid at the cervicomedullary junction. Cerebellar tonsil reduction is performed chiefly by electric coagulation and cauterization combined with subpial resection, and the integrity of the pia mater should be maintained as much as possible to avoid potential adhesion and recurrence. The median foramens and Luschka of the fourth ventricle have to be opened to recover normal CSF circulation. Arachnoidal suspension and placement of a patulous dural graft are also important. Modified reconstruction of the cistern magna can be a good option for treatment of syringomyelia complicated by Chiari malformations.