790 cases of cerebral astrocytoma, which consisted of 181 cases of astrocytoma grade I, 282 cases of grade II, and 327 cases of grade III-IV, histopathologically verified, are presented. The sex and age distribution, topographical distribution of the tumours, and clinical manifestations are analyzed. A total of 862 operations were performed, and 69 cases (8.6%) were operated on more than twice for recurrence. The operative mortality was 7.7%. 179 of the survivors following operation received a combined treatment with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Based on the follow-up study of 170 cases, the factors which may correlate with the length of survival, are discussed.