Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus and methods are disclosed for holding a subject body (or body portion, generally termed 'body') at a desired stereotaxic orientation relative to a known reference point, in three-dimensional space, where a reference X-axis, a reference Y-axis, and a reference Z-axis mutually intersect. The reference point can be co-positioned with a target point on or in the subject body so as to place the body in a reference position used in a corresponding anatomical atlas or other locational index. With the body so positioned, a probe or other tool can be inserted into the body to a desired locus with high accuracy (in hitting the desired locus) and with high precision (from one animal to the next). To such end, at least one tool is mounted to an implement especially configured to be mounted to a manipulator so as to present the tool(s) to the body at respective loci on or in the body. The apparatus and methods have especial utility in surgical and diagnostic interventions, including such interventions involving the central nervous system encased in surrounding skull or the like.

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First Claim