Abstract
Surgery for spinal cord tumors remains one of the major challenges for neurosurgeons. Nonetheless, we are sure that the safe and precise resection of tumors, particularly benign tumors, can result in acceptable or satisfactory postoperative outcomes. A better balance between tumor resection and functional preservation can be achieved not only by applying the best surgical technique, but also by intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, vascular image guidance, and postoperative supportive treatment. Herein, general surgical concepts, technical consideration, and functional outcome after surgery are discussed with illustrative cases of spinal extramedullary tumors such as dumbbell-shaped nerve sheath tumors and ventrally located meningiomas, and spinal intramedullary tumors such as ependymomas, cavernous malformations or hemangioblastomas.
