stereotaxis
Pronunciation: stair-ee-oh-TAK-sis
Three-dimensional coordinate system used to precisely locate structures within the brain for surgical or experimental procedures.
Full Definition
Stereotaxis is a neurosurgical and research technique that uses a three-dimensional coordinate system to accurately target specific brain regions. The method relies on external landmarks and internal reference points (typically the anterior and posterior commissures) to create a standardized spatial framework. This approach enables precise electrode placement, lesion creation, or drug delivery with minimal tissue damage, and is essential for both clinical neurosurgery and experimental neuroscience.
Usage
Usage note: Adjective form is 'stereotactic' or 'stereotaxic' - both spellings are acceptable in current usage.
In Context
- "The electrode was implanted using stereotaxis to target the subthalamic nucleus." — Deep brain stimulation procedure report
- "Stereotaxis coordinates were calculated from the MRI atlas for precise lesion placement." — Experimental methods section