Ultrasonic ventriculostomy stylet.

Abstract

I describe my design for a ventriculostomy stylet fitted with a phase array ultrasonic imaging device in its tip. Theoretically, this would allow identification of the ventricles and their exact location at the bedside, without the need for expensive stereotactic equipment. A device such as this could potentially facilitate the placement of ventriculostomy catheters in patients with small ventricles, and it could even contribute to the education of neurosurgery residents. At present, a prototype of the device is being manufactured.