Abstract: This invention concerns a neurosurgical kit comprising a catheter (1) and a guide tube (2). The catheter (1) comprises a distal section of tubing (11) having a distal end with a port or ports for delivering fluid to a target site within the brain. The distal section of tubing (11) has an outer diameter that is smaller than an internal diameter of the guide tube (2). The catheter (1) and guide tube (2) are arranged such that, when the catheter (1) is inserted into the guide tube (2) to locate the port or ports at the target site, a recess (14) is provided in a distal end section of the guide tube (2) between the guide tube (2) and the distal section of tubing (11) of the catheter (1).

Abstract: A catheter for use in neurosurgery, and a method of positioning neurosurgical apparatus. The catheter has a fine tube arranged for insertion into the brain parenchyma of a patient with an external diameter of not more than 1.0 mm. The catheter and method may be used in stereotactically targeting treatment of abnormalities of brain function, and for the infusion of therapeutic agents directly into the brain parenchyma. This is advantageous when a therapeutic agent would have widespread unwanted effects which could be avoided by confining the delivery to the malfunctioning or damaged brain tissue.

Abstract: A catheter assembly for insertion into the brain. The assembly comprises a first length of tubing made of a first material. A second material surrounds the first length of tubing, the second material being more flexible than the first material and having a hardness of less than 50 Rockwell E. The second material provides damping to the first length of tubing.

Abstract: A catheter assembly for insertion into the brain. The assembly comprises a first length of tubing made of a first material. A second material surrounds the first length of tubing, the second material being more flexible than the first material and having a hardness of less than 50 Rockwell E. The second material provides damping to the first length of tubing.

Abstract: A guide element for insertion into the brain to guide implantable instruments, wherein the guide element comprises an elongate part, the elongate part having a composition of at least 80% tungsten carbide. The guide element may have a coating, such as a biocompatible plastics material which is more resilient than the elongate part.

Abstract: A guide element for insertion into the brain to guide implantable instruments, wherein the guide element comprises an elongate part, the elongate ‘part having a composition of at least 80% tungsten carbide. The guide element may have a coating, such as a biocompatible plastics material which is more resilient than the elongate part.

Abstract: A catheter assembly for insertion into the brain. The assembly comprises a first length of tubing made of a first material. A second material surrounds the first length of tubing, the second material being more flexible than the first material and having a hardness of less than 50 Rockwell E. The second material provides damping to the first length of tubing.