Surgical resection plays a central role in the management of gliomas however many tumors are within areas resulting in sensorimotor and cognitive consequences. This article reviews the evidence in support of extent of resection to improve survival, symptom management, and time to malignant transformation in low-grade gliomas. The authors summarize the evolving literature regarding the role of maximal safe resection in light of WHO subclassification of low-grade gliomas. Long lasting neurological deficits following glioma resection may hinder both survival and quality of life. New insights into glioma related central nervous system plasticity impact both surgical planning and timing of interventions.

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