Spinal cord lipomas is a kind of refractory neural tube defect with great harm. In the previous experiences, some neurosurgeons did not know enough about the pathoanatomical characteristics and surgical techniques of the disease, which led to a high rate of postoperative complications and symptom recurrence. This article reviews the embryopathology features, classifications, examination methods, surgical strategies, operative procedures, outcomes and follow-up results of spinal cord lipoma to provide references for clinical workers to diagnose and treat this disease.