The development of techniques for resection of spinal cord tumors by Harvey W. Cushing

J Neurosurg Spine. 2005 Jan;2(1):92-7. doi: 10.3171/spi.2005.2.1.0092.

Abstract

Harvey Cushing's refinement of Halsted's meticulous surgical techniques facilitated safe resection of intradural spinal tumors. Although Cushing focused his attention on brain tumors at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital, his numerous contributions to the treatment of intradural spinal tumors include the description of these tumors' natural histories and their histological classifications. The application of his experienced intracranial techniques to the resection of spinal tumors improved outcomes. The authors review selected operative notes and sketches to demonstrate his technique in the excision of the spinal cord tumors.

Publication types

  • Biography
  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Hemangioblastoma / history
  • Hemangioblastoma / surgery
  • History, 19th Century
  • Humans
  • Laminectomy / methods
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / history*
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Meningioma / history
  • Meningioma / surgery
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / history*
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / history*
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / surgery

Personal name as subject

  • Harvey W Cushing