Dr. Gail Marie Santucci, MD

After a Cevical MRI read by Dr Santucci my primary sent me to a surgeon. After reviewing the MRi and report he asked me if anyone had ever told me I had a Chiari Type 1 Malformation. I told him "Yes". He said he almost missed it because it was not on the report, and to make sure I told every doctor I saw that I have this problem. Fast forward. I got in touch with Sr Santucci and questioned her. She said I did not meet the requirements and I would need a brain scan if I thought I really had it. I took 2 brain scans and 6 cervical MRI's to her office; every one except hers stated I had this problem. She finally issued and addendum to her report stating "The patient contacted me regarding a history of Chiari I malformation on multiple previous MRI"s. I reviewed the comparison study available to me... (from date and location.) The previous report describes a Chiari malformation with extension of cerebellar tonsils approximately 7mm below the foramen magnum. This can be confirmed in the… extension of the right cerebellar tonsil to 6-7 mm below the foramen magnum on the previous exam. On current exam, there is minimal extension of the right cerebellar tonsil of 2-3 mm below the foreman magnum, not meeting MRI criteria for a Chiari I malformation. Clinical correlation is advised. If patients is felt to have symptoms referable to a chair I malformation, dedicated brain imaging may be helpful..." I had had two brain scans and 5 previous MRI's at various locations including a top 5 Medical school that confirmed the diagnosis.