Method and Apparatus for Using a Surgical Fixture in an Intra-Operative Computed Tomography Scanner

• Main Authors: SCHUELE PHILLIP CHRISTIAN, SCHUELE MATTHIAS EDGAR, SCHUELE EDGAR FRANZ, SCHUELE THOMAS CHRISTIAN
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 11.03.2010
• Subjects: CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES; HUMAN NECESSITIES; HYGIENE; MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; TRANSPORT OR ACCOMODATION FOR PATIENTS

A fixture for immobilizing a patient's head during a medical procedure is usable with a CT scanner. The fixture includes a skull clamp having detachable and adjustable radiolucent extensions. The radiolucent extensions include a body portion, a surgical pin holder assembly, and an attachment member. A first radiolucent extension includes a two-pin holder assembly. A second radiolucent extension includes a single-pin holder assembly. The attachment member of the radiolucent extension allows for angular adjustable attachment of the radiolucent extension to the skull clamp through corresponding starburst features. The surgical fixture may include an immobilization base unit having first and second mounting arms, a connecting arm, and a position adapter. The skull clamp with extensions attaches to the immobilization base unit to further immobilize the patient. The position adapter connects to the skull clamp and includes a rotational unit and vertical adjustment unit to position the patient as desired.