Magnetic resonance imaging and microsurgical treatment of intramedullary hemangioblastoma of the spinal cord.

Thirteen cases of intramedullary hemangioblastoma of the spinal cord were studied radiologically, especially with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Microsurgery was used to remove the tumors in all cases. Signs and symptoms were improved in 84.6% of the cases after operation. The diagnosis and microsurgical techniques for excision of intramedullary hemangioblastoma of the spinal cord are discussed. This disease should be differentiated from hydromyelia, intramedullary ependymoma, and vascular malformation of the spinal cord. Total removal of the tumor is recommended.