Kit for image guided surgical procedures
An embodiment of the present invention provides a kit of parts for use in a surgical procedure performed under image guidance, and particularly under real time image guidance. The kit includes a sterilized drape for use with the chosen imaging machine and which can be used to provide a sterile operating environment when the procedure is performed under the imaging beam. The kit also includes a needle holder that can keep the surgeon's hand away from the imaging beam. The needle holder is operable to hold a needle that is made from a material suitable for piercing tissue, but also substantially preserves the appearance of the needle when it is viewed under the imaging beam.
1 . A kit of parts for use in an image guided surgical procedure using a substantially real time imaging machine comprising: a needle holder having a grasping means and a handle depending therefrom, said handle being configured such that said grasping means can be exposed to said imaging beam and an operator's hand can be kept a distance away from said imaging beam; a needle attachable to said grasping means and having a rigidity to travel through mammalian tissue to a target area and having a radioopacity that substantially preserves an appearance of said needle when said needle is viewed on a display of said real time imaging machine; and a sleeve for attachment to said real time imaging machine that provides a substantially sterile operating environment for using said needle when attached to said machine.
2 . The kit of parts according to claim 1 wherein a locking mechanisms is associated with at least one of said grasping means and said needle for releasably locking said needle to said needle holder.
3 . A surgical instrument for use in an image guided surgical procedure using a substantially real time imaging machine comprising: a needle holder having a grasping means and a handle depending therefrom, said handle being configured such that said grasping means can be exposed to said imaging beam and an operator's hand can be kept a distance away from said imaging beam; and, a needle attachable to said grasping means and having a rigidity to travel through mammalian tissue to a target area and having a radioopacity that substantially preserves an appearance of said needle when said needle is viewed on a display of said real time imaging machine.
4 . The surgical instrument of claim 3 wherein said needle is a trocar comprising a cannula and a stylet receivable within said cannula.
5 . The surgical instrument of claim 3 wherein a locking mechanism is associated with at least one of said grasping means and said needle for releasably locking said needle to said needle holder.