Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing stereotactic surgery upon a target within a skull establishes a first, predetermined geometric relationship between a positioning fixture mounted on the skull and a scanning table surface upon which the skull is supported; and that geometric relationship is duplicated in a phantom fixture. An arc device permits entry into the skull by a medical instrument from a plurality of locations upon the skull.

Abstract: A vertebral lock mountable in a cavity surgically formed in a vertebra, to separate and stabilize the adjacent vertebrae above and below the cavity. Oppositely extending pins project upwardly and downwardly from a generally cylindrical body which is insertable in the cavity. The pins are fixed vertically by a spline which is slid between their inner ends, at a right angle, to prevent the pins from loosening.

Abstract: Apparatus for holding a patient's head for surgery thereon so that the head is accessible from ear to ear and from occiput to and including the orbits. The apparatus holds the head clamped between opposed clamp pads. Rear support means engages the posterior of the head and a pair of face pads are adjustably positionable just below the cheekbones of the patient and are lockable in such position. The face pads and rear support means are releasably movable toward one another to hold the head securely between them.

Abstract: A surgical head clamp which comprises a framework on which a first head engaging pin member and a rotatable bracket are supported. The axis of the first pin member is the axis of rotation of the bracket. Spaced second and third head engaging pin members are mounted on the bracket and directed toward the first pin member. The first pin member can be advanced axially toward the bracket to cause the pin members to engage the head. The bracket can be locked in selected position and is releaseable to permit turning of the head about said axis without releasing the pin members from the head.