Image guided stereotaxic surgery

Computerized tomographic (CT) scanning and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can demonstrate areas of abnormal tissue within the brain, sometimes smaller than can be safely found and biopsied by open surgery or free-hand needle techniques. Image guided stereotaxic surgery can accurately and reproducibly place a needle in the brain based upon data from high resolution images. Tissue biopsy, abscess or cyst drainage, placement of radioactive seeds, or removal of a parenchymal hematoma can be done with less patient morbidity and in-hospital time.