The authors review contemporary indications for neurosurgical interventions in the management of chronic & refractory mental disorder, the procedures involved, their efficacy, & known adverse effects, including suicide. It is noted most of the patients undergoing neurosurgery for mental disorder have had chronic severe illness, often with a history of suicide attempts. 4 studies in which the occurrence of suicide was examined among patients who had a neurosurgical procedure are briefly mentioned. (44 refs.)