title: Microneurosurgical water probe.
abstract: When constructing the micro-neurosurgical water ball probe, the authors have simply combined the properties of a ball probe with an irrigational function and the supportive role of water current to form a new irrigating ball dissector. The micro-instrument has an outlet mechanism with which the surgeon can regulate the flow of physiological solution into the operational field. Its point has the properties of a ball probe, and the overall bayonet shape facilitates surgical interventions in deep tissues under microscopic control. The water probe therefore enables the surgeon to perform precise mechanical preparation supported by a regulated current of water and a targeted irrigation in the operational field. The physiological solution in the pressure infusion cuff is under minimal pressure and directly connected to the probe. Due to the fact that one device can be used for various purposes the water ball probe represents an advantageous alternative to conventional micro-neurosurgical preparation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Landesnervenklinik Wagner-Jauregg, Linz, Austria. peter.pogady@gespag.at
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Pogády
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Wurm
mesh_terms: D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000295:instrumentation*; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation*; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation / Q000295:instrumentation*