Fiducial markers visible on both imaging scans and the patient are a covient and accurate
method to register the patients head in stereotactic space prceeding an interactive
image directed neurosurgical procedure. We have been using the Laitinen non-invasive
relocatable stero-adapter to carry the fidcucial markers both during the imaging and
patient registration process. Since the adapter can be accurately remounted the surgical
procedure can take place at any time interval after the imaging study. To compare
registration accuracy studies were performed using a phantom carrying both surface
fiducial markers and fiducial markers mounted on the stereo adapter. We have found
that total system accuracy using either surface or adapter mounted markers and an
optical tracking system is in the range of 3 - 5 mm and is acceptable for a broad
range of neurosurgical applications.
Image guided surgery; stero-adaptor, registration
