Preoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging allows now a better analysis of the relationship between intracranial tumors and the surrounding brain tissue. Even very small deepseated tumors can be identified during the operation by intraoperative ultrasound. These technological advances have had a great influence on indications, planning strategies and microsurgical techniques. The author shows the functional anatomy of the brain with the eye and the mind of a microsurgeon and demonstrates well known topographical relationships under the aspect of an utmost gentle operative approach.
