[Zásady operacního osetrení metastáz pátere.]

The authors describe the principles of the treatment of spinal metastases. In the case of rapid progression of neural symptoms the surgery should be performed in the first 24 hours after the symptoms onset. In the case of slow progression or normal neurology the surgery follows the detailed assessment. According to the tumor extent is decided posterior, anterior or combined surgery. The decompression with or without stabilization is indicated in 12 months life expectancy. In longer survival an extensive surgery is indicated. The goal of this treatment is the spine realignment and its stabilization. Surgery improves the life quality and enables the patient his return to family in most cases. Key words: spinal metastasis, principles of surgical treatment.