This document discusses Chiari malformations, which occur during fetal development and involve downward displacement of the cerebellar tonsils. It describes the symptoms, diagnosis via imaging, surgical treatment involving decompression, and risks/outcomes. Chiari I malformation involves tonsillar herniation below the foramen magnum, while Chiari II occurs in myelomeningocele patients. Surgery aims to relieve pressure and reduce syrinx size, with over 90% success rates though younger patients pose greater challenges.