NEUROSURGICAL APPARATUS

摘要

Neurosurgical apparatus is described that comprises a guidance device (40; 100; 150; 200; 250) comprising a guide tube (42; 104; 152; 202) and a neurosurgical instrument (60; 110) for insertion into the guide tube (42; 104; 152; 202). The inner surface (46; 108) of the guide tube (42; 104; 152; 202) is arranged, for example profiled,to at least partially engage the outer surface (72; 120) of the neurosurgical instrument (60; 110) when inserted therein. The guide tube (42; 104; 152; 202) thus guides the neurosurgical instrument (60; 110) along a predefined path through the guide tube (42; 104; 152; 202). At least one of the guidance device (40; 100; 150; 200; 250) and the outer surface of the neurosurgical instrument (60; 110) are configured to provide a fluid return path (50a-50c; 122a-122c) for carrying any fluid displaced from within the guide tube (42;104; 152; 202) during insertion of the neurosurgical instrument (60; 110) into the guide tube (42; 104; 152; 202). A seal may also be provided for sealing the fluid return path (50a-50c; 122a-122c).