Results of laminectomy in spinal cord compression due to tumours.

In the neurosurgical clinic of the University of Groningen 67 patients were admitted during 8 years with a diagnosis of spinal cord compression by a tumour. Fifthy-three patients had an epidural tumour mass and 14 an intradural tumour. Of the epidural tumour patients became ambulatory, 20 (37.7%) while in the intradural group 78.5% of the patients were improved. The possible pathogenesis of the transverse lesions is discussed, and the necessity for further clinical research is stressed.