Accuracy depends on registering preoperative MRI or CT images to the patient’s actual anatomy. This step creates the spatial relationship needed to interpret the patient’s position within the image-based coordinate system. Once registration is established, tracked instruments can be viewed relative to anatomical structures, allowing the planned target and trajectory to remain aligned with the patient during the intervention.
The coordinate system provides a consistent way to describe the location of a brain target and the path toward it. By linking coordinates with anatomical images, the system supports planning around defined structures rather than relying only on direct visual access. This spatial framework is especially important when instruments must reach deep targets while avoiding critical areas.
Trajectory planning determines how an instrument approaches the intended target and helps account for nearby critical structures. Navigation maintains the relationship between the planned path, the images, and the tracked tool as the procedure proceeds. In practice, this can support precise access while limiting unnecessary tissue disruption, which is relevant to biopsies, electrode placement, and lesioning.
A typical workflow begins with preoperative MRI or CT acquisition, followed by registration of those images to the patient’s anatomy. The target and an intended trajectory are then defined within the three-dimensional dataset. During the procedure, the system tracks the instrument relative to the images, helping the operator follow the planned route and maintain orientation toward the target.
Preoperative MRI or CT provides the anatomical information used for planning and localization. The navigation system then incorporates surgical instruments that can be tracked relative to those images. Together, the imaging dataset and instrument tracking allow the operator to relate tool position to the selected target and surrounding anatomy, supporting guided access during a neurosurgical intervention.
In neuroscience, the technique supports brain biopsy, deep brain stimulation, electrode placement, and lesioning, among other interventions. These applications use image-based targeting to reach selected brain regions and help avoid critical structures. The same approach also contributes to studies of brain function and neurological disease by enabling more controlled placement of instruments or therapeutic devices.