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 . An imaging machine comprising: a channel for receiving a patient and exposing said patient to a substantially real time imaging beam; and, an attachment means for affixing a sterile drape to said channel, such that when said sterile drape is attached thereto a substantially sterile barrier between said channel and said patient is provided.
2 . The machine of claim 1 wherin said attachment means is comprised of a pair of annular lips flanged so as to provide a secure attachment to a pair of annular eleasticed openings of a sterile sleeve.
3 . The machine according to claim 1 wherein said beam is selected from the group consisting of CT, MRI, and X-Ray.
4 . The machine according to claim 1 wherein a refresh rate of said real-time imaging beam is greater than about thirteen frames per second.
5 . The machine according to claim 4 wherein said rate is greater than about thirty frames per second.
6 . The machine according to claim 4 wherein said rate is greater than about fifty frames per second.