Use of the NeuroMate stereotactic robot in a frameless mode for functional neurosurgery

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this paper is to describe the use of the NeuroMate stereotactic robot for functional neurosurgery with a novel frameless ultrasound registration system. METHODS: A retrospective review of the evaluation and clinical use of the NeuroMate stereotactic robot in a frameless mode for functional neurosurgery. RESULTS: Prior to its clinical use a phantom study was undertaken to demonstrate an application accuracy of 1.29 mm. Subsequently the robot has been used in 153 functional neurosurgical procedures including 113 deep brain stimulator implantations. CONCLUSIONS: The NeuroMate stereotactic robot in a frameless mode has sufficient accuracy for a range of functional neurosurgical procedures, including movement disorder surgery.