Abstract: A frameless stereotactic tomographic scanner includes an imaging device defining a coordinate system in scanner space (.PI.). A localizer device includes a base portion mounted in a fixed relationship to the imaging device and a free end adapted for selective movement into varied positions near a patient body disposed on the imaging device. A position transducer associated with the localizer device generates, in a localizer space (), localizer device tip location information as the localizer device is moved near the patient body. A localizer space to scanner space transform processor converts the localizer tip location information to converted localizer tip location information in an image space (). The imaging device is adapted to generate patient body image information in the image space () regarding the patient body disposed on the device. A display unit is included for displaying the patient body image information together with the localizer tip position information on a human readable display monitor.

Abstract: A stereotactic guide apparatus 100 is provided for use with a CT scanner device 18 for guiding the entry of a probe into a patient's body. The CT scanner device is provided with a stereotactic arm member 30 having a first base end 42 connected to the CT scanner device 18 and a second free end 40 movable relative to the CT scanner device. The stereotactic surgical instrument guide apparatus includes a first end effector member 106 including a guide channel 152 defining a probe insertion path 150. The surgical instrument guidance device further includes a second end effector member 104 on the free end of the stereotactic arm member and including a laser light source 108 generating a light guide beam along the probe insertion path 150.