Leksell stereotactic helmet
Parkinson's disease surgeries are done without general anaesthesia, with patient fully awake. It involves fixation of stereotactic helmet to the patient's head under local anesthesia . This helmet is used to locate the brain targets with the help of CT and MRI scans. The coordinates (reference points) that are obtained from this scans are then transferred to the theater computers and final read outs are obtained. These points are then set on the stereotactic arc system and a fine electrode is introduced into the brain, through a small hole drilled into the skull. Electric current is passed through the electrode to check its position in relation to the vital structures surrounding the target area. Neurologist present in the operation theater constantly assesses the clinical improvement in the symptoms like tremor and rigidity vis a vis side effects. Once it is confirmed that the electrode is in the right place, either destruction of small group of cells is done or a permanent electrode is implanted.
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