Stereotactic computer tomography with a modified Riechert-Mundinger device as the basis for integrated stereotactic neuroradiological investigations.

Abstract

For stereotactic biopsy, intracavitary and interstitial irradiation of intracranial tumours, stereotactic CT investigations are of utmost importance. Target-points within a tumour as well as the tumour-outlines have to be transferred precisely from transverse and longitudinal CT sections to stereotactic X-ray images. For this purpose, the stereotactic apparatus of Riechert and Mundinger has been equipped with a fixation system of carbon fibre and a measuring phantoma of plexiglass with embedded steel wires allowing stereotactic CT scanning without artefacts. The stereotactic coordinates (x, y, z) of any target point can be taken directly from transverse CT images with high accuracy. The tumour outlines can be transferred to the stereotactic coordinate system from longitudinal CT reconstructions using special computer programmes. Precise transfer is possible if the CT investigation is performed stereotactically.