Cranial biopsies require a high level of accuracy to reach the intended target while sparing surrounding critical structures in the brain. Stereotaxy is a tool that can be used to guide instruments accurately to a preplanned trajectory while keeping the incisions small. However, stereotactic devices can require a lot of expertise and manual steps to set the instrument guide to the preplanned trajectory.

As a robotic surgical assistant, Cirq addresses the challenges in cranial biopsies through the combination of advanced planning features, accurate registration options and real-time optical tracking to facilitate precise stereotactic procedures.

Real time tracking of the Biopsy Needle allows for constant visualization of the cutting window’s position to ensure full control of the sample collection. Acquiring the position of the sample can add valuable information for the histology or during the resection.

However, the Brainlab navigation software and Cirq work in tandem to not only provide trajectory-based positioning guidance, but also to perform the last, most critical alignment step with robotic accuracy.

Setting the right depth for the drill stop is crucial to ensure safe drilling. The Bone Overlay and Bone Ruler ¹ intuitively display the required information at the right time in the workflow. Then, the smart in-line measurement bone ruler helps users set the right drill depth.

After that, the bone anchor fixates the biopsy needle in relation to patients’ anatomy and locks it in place during sample collection.

As a slim and modular robotic platform, Cirq fits into almost any operating room allowing surgeons to leverage the advantages of robotics for all kinds of procedures – standard to complex. The system attaches easily to most O.R. tables and accommodates multiple imaging devices.