BACKGROUND: The application of nanotechnology in medicine encompasses an interdisciplinary field of sciences for the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of medical conditions. This study aims to systematically review and summarize the advances of nanotechnology applicable to neurosurgery. METHODS: We performed a PubMed advanced search of reports exploring the advances of nanotechnology and nanomedicine relating to diagnosis, treatment, or both, in neurosurgery, for the last decade. The search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines, and the following data were extracted from each paper: title; authors; article type; PMID; DOI; year of publication; in vitro, in vivo model; nanomedical, nanotechnological material; nanofield; neurosurgical field; the application of the system; and main conclusions of the study. RESULTS: A total of 78 original studies were included in this review. The results were organized into the following categories: functional neurosurgery, head trauma, neurodegenerative diseases, neuro-oncology, spinal surgery and peripheral nerves, vascular neurosurgery, and studies that apply to more than one field. A further categorization applied in terms of nanomedical field such as neuroimaging, neuro-nanotechnology, neuroregeneration, theranostics, and neuro-nanotherapy. CONCLUSION: In reviewing the literature, significant advances in imaging and treatment of central nervous system diseases are underway and are expected to reach clinical practice in the next decade by the application of the rapidly evolving nanotechnology techniques.