Neurological surgery at the Cleveland Clinic: a historical perspective.

The department of Neurological Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic is one of the largest and most specialized in the country. This report recounts the Clinic's early history, beginning with the ties between its principal founder, George W. Crile, and Harvey Cushing, through the tragic "Clinic disaster," the death of its first dedicated neurosurgeon, and the arrival of W. James Gardner. The evolution of the department and the present state of the residency training program are discussed.