Microsurgery of tumours of the frontal white matter.

Seventy eight microsurgical extirpations of tumours located in the frontal white matter led to adjustment of the normal anatomy of the frontal brain according to microsurgical requirements, and also to relation with modern diagnostic procedures, especially computerized tomography (CT-scanning). The advantages of microsurgical treatment have been demonstrated. Thus, only exact comprehension of topographical anatomy allows a methodical, careful, and radical procedure. As vessels were commonly saved, postoperative courses were relatively benign because of less tendency to oedema. Out of 78 patients, 3 died while in hospital, and two recurrences were observed in the following 23 months. Postoperatively 51 patients improved, 18 stayed unchanged neurologically, and 9 patients deteriorated permanently. The usual microsurgical instruments were employed. Vascular problems were dealt with by the routine techniques used at our hospital.