Anatomic principles of intradural spinal surgery.

In summary, the predominate role of surgery as the definitive treatment modality for the vast majority of intradural pathology provides a unique opportunity to improve outcome through continued advances in microsurgery. There is also, however, the added responsibility that comes with the treatment of benign and generally nonlife-threatening pathology, that is, an increasing expectation of cure and anticipation of preserved neurologic function. Successful intervention is maximized by the surgeon who recognizes that microsurgical technique and judgment are learned skills obtained only through experience but developed within a framework of anatomic principles and an understanding of how anatomy is altered by specific pathologic processes.