Abstract: A microscope calibrator probe includes a handle, a tool head connected to the handle, a viewable target connected to an end of the tool head opposite the handle, and three or more position signaling devices disposed on the handle for tracking the probe in an image guided surgery system. The tool head includes a bend of approximately 90 degrees to provide easy placement of the viewable target on an object being viewed below a microscope. Other angles for the bend are also acceptable. A precise location of the object being viewed is determined by sensing a location the three or more position signaling devices disposed on the handle with respect to an operating room reference frame and knowing an offset between the position signaling devices and a bottom surface of the viewable target in contact with the object. Additionally, the viewable target includes a viewable aperture for calibrating a line of sight of the microscope and a means for indicating a rotational sense of the viewable target.

Abstract: A tool calibrator includes two portions shaped to slidably engage and secure a tool in a desired position. The tool is secured by a series of staggered V shaped grooves on each of the two portions having a known geometrical relationship with a diameter of a tool head of the tool. The tool calibrator further includes at least one position signaling device for communicating a location of the tool calibrator in an operating room or other area. A position and direction of a tip of the tool is determined by comparing a location of the tool secured within the tool calibrator to the location of each of the two portions. Further, based on the location of each of the two portions, the diameter of the tool head is calculated.

Abstract: A position signaling is usable in connection with an image guided surgery system. A plurality of infrared emitters are mounted on a reference object. The reference object is in turn attached to the rocker arm of a head clamp. The head clamp includes a frame and a first head engaging pin secured to one side of the frame. The rocker arm includes two head engaging pins and is movable in relation to the frame. The image guided surgery system uses the signals provided by the infrared emitters to determine and account for movement of the patient's head.

Abstract: A surgical guide for use with an image guided surgery includes first and second surfaces. At least three signaling devices such as infrared emitters are disposed on the first surface, and a cylindrical mounting boss is disposed on the second surface. A guide aperture is perpendicular to the first and second surfaces and extends between them. The guide aperture is configured to support a surgical tool such as a biopsy needle. A sleeve may be placed in the aperture to support additional tools.