What are the tests for chiari malformation?

Head/ Cervical MRI: Chiari malformation is best diagnosed with a head MRI without contrast to assess for the abnormal tonsil position and determine whether hydrocephalus, or water on the brain, is present also. A cervical MRI without contrast can assess for a problem called a syrinx, or a fluid cavity in the center of the spinal cord. A lumbar MRI without contrast can also exclude a tethered cord causing numb legs.