Advances in the Treatment of Cervical Stenosis and Chiari Malformation

Tuesday, May 20, 2008
6:00 - 8:30 PM

Renaissance Chicago North Shore , Northbrook, IL

Until recently, Chiari malformation (CM) was regarded as a rare condition. Current estimates suggest that up to 2 million Americans may have CM. Oftentimes, however, it goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis, migraine, fibromyalgia, or psychiatric disturbances.

Cervical stenosis is a common cause of neck pain, mostly occurring in patients over 50 as a result of aging and “wear and tear” on the spine. Similar to CM, cervical stenosis is difficult to diagnose.

Early recognition and the understanding of treatment options are imperative in preventing progression of the condition.

This educational event has been designed to educate attendees on the nuances of diagnosing and treating CM and cervical stenosis. Surgical advances in the treatment of cervical stenosis, including the recently FDA-approved Prestige® Cervical Disc will be specifically addressed.

Target Audience

Primary care physicians, neurologists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, nurses and professionals in the work injury community.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Describe cervical spine anatomy and common causes for stenosis and Chiari malformation.
• Identify the symptoms of cervical stenosis and Chiari malformation.

• Discuss the non-surgical management options for cervical stenosis and Chiari malformation.

• Review pertinent examination and diagnostic techniques applicable to cervical stenosis and Chiari malformation.

• Cite recent advances in the surgical treatment of cervical stenosis and Chiari malformation.

Accreditation

Physicians

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essentials Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the Chicago Medical Society and the CINN Foundation. The Chicago Medical Society is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The Chicago Medical Society designates this educational activity for a maximum of 2 category 1 credits towards the AMA Physician’s Recognition Award. Each physician should claim only those hours of credit that he/she actually spent in the educational activity.

Nurses

This continuing nursing education activity was approved by the Illinois Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

Chiropractors

The Illinois Chiropractic Society’s Continuing Medical Education Committee approved the educational program for 2 credit hours Category 1 credit.

Acupuncturists

Participants earn 2 CE credit hours provided by the Neurologic & Orthopedic Hospital of Chicago.

Faculty Disclosure

Dean G. Karahalios, M.D. is a consultant for Medtronic. Leonard J. Cerullo, M.D., and Daniel J. Hurley, M.D. have no significant financial relationships to disclose.

Registration

The $25 per person non-refundable fee includes CME/CE credits, dinner and drinks. For more information or to register by phone please call 773-250-1009. Download a registration form, or register online.