Abstract: A method of inserting an electrode into a cranial cavity of a cranium can include determining a length, between a target within the cranial cavity and a proximal end of a multipiece cannula, of the electrode for insertion of the electrode to the target. A distal end of the electrode can be inserted through a multipiece cannula supported by an instrument holder of a surgical arm. The surgical arm can be positioned such that a distance from the target to the proximal end of the cannula is equal to the length. The electrode can be fed through the cannula and through the anchor bolt into the cranial cavity. Feeding of the electrode through the cannula and into the cranial cavity can be stopped when the length of the electrode fed into the cavity reaches the length between the proximal opening of the multipiece cannula and the target.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for preferentially stimulating a portion of neural tissue including a first type of neurons and a second type of neurons. The method includes defining a waveform characterizing an electrical stimulus, wherein the waveform includes an amplitude-modulated wave of the electric stimulus. The method also includes applying the electrical stimulus having the defined waveform to a stimulating element located in proximity to the neural tissue to selectively activate the first type of neurons while leaving the second type of neurons one of substantially unaffected and suppressed in response to the electrical stimulus.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for preferentially stimulating a portion of neural tissue including a first type of neurons and a second type of neurons. The method includes defining a waveform characterizing an electrical stimulus, wherein the waveform includes an amplitude-modulated wave of the electric stimulus. The method also includes applying the electrical stimulus having the defined waveform to a stimulating element located in proximity to the neural tissue to selectively activate the first type of neurons while leaving the second type of neurons one of substantially unaffected and suppressed in response to the electrical stimulus.