System for continuous display of target location in medical treatments

摘要

A system and procedure for accurately defining target locations during e.g. neurosurgical treatments employs a computer-aided primary referencing apparatus which incorporates a database indexing the patient's anatomical make-up, diagnostic data and the positions of treatment equipment prior to commencement. A further position sensor e.g. an ultrasonic probe carrying position referencing reflectors is used to establish instantaneous values for each of the stored parameters and so provide a comprehensive update for the precise navigation of the treatment programme which is controlled by the primary referencing apparatus.