Objective. To evaluate whether intramedullary tumor of the cervical sp
inal cord is amenable to aggressive surgery and to clarify surgical ti
ming and important points for tumor removal. Patients and Methods, Fif
ty-eight patients with intramedullary tumor of the cervical spinal cor
d were examined by magnetic resonance imaging and treated by microsurg
ery in Huashan Hospital between May 1988 and December 1994. The result
s were analysed by F or Chi square tests. Results, Tumors were totally
resected in 50 cases (86.2%), subtotally resected in 7 and partially
resected in 1. Forty-five (77.6%) patients had their neurological stat
us improved postoperatively. Most patients with moderate neurological
deficit can recover remarkably after total tumor removal. Laser surger
y is especially helpful for treating lipoma. Conclusions. Intramedulla
ry tumor of the cervical spinal cord is amenable to total tumor remova
l. Operation is suitable when a patient presents moderate neurological
deficit. Proficient surgical technique and standards for total tumor
resection are essential for good results. Preoperative radiotherapy co
ntributes to difficult surgery and poor prognosis, and is not recommen
ded.