Abstract: A drill fixation device (F) to adapt a high speed drill (D) for use in vertebra drilling and cutting. The device includes a carrier (16) mounting the drill (D) for guided movement relative to a base (14) and a squeeze grip (22-24) connected between the base (14) and carrier (16) to enable a surgeon to selectively impart such movement to the drill. A foot plate (50) is fixed relative to the base (14) in spaced relationship to the carrier (16) so as to be in the path of the bit (12) of a drill (D) mounted on the carrier (16). In use, the foot plate (50) is positioned beneath the bone material to be cut to apply counterforce to the bone material as the drill cuts and shield nerve tissue from harm by the bit.