A modification of the Mayfield horseshoe headrest allowing pin fixation and cranial immobilization in infants and young children.
OBJECTIVE
Pin fixation and rigid immobilization of the head is desirable in many neurosurgical procedures. However, these techniques are associated with complications in infants and young children. A simple modification of a commonly used cranial fixation system allows rigid, safe immobilization of the head in infants and children.


METHODS
A standard Mayfield horseshoe headrest and cranial fixation system was adapted to allow simultaneous use of the headrest and three-point pin fixation. The system is compatible with most neuronavigational systems.


RESULTS
The combined horseshoe and pin system was used successfully in more than 30 patients ranging in age from 6 months to 14 years. No complications were encountered.


CONCLUSIONS
Rigid immobilization is achievable in the pediatric population, facilitating intracranial and frameless stereotaxy procedures.
Gupta
Nalin
N
Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143-0112, USA. guptan@neurosurg.ucsf.edu
D000293:Adolescent; D001858:Bone Nails; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003399:Craniotomy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization; D007223:Infant; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D013238:Stereotaxic Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation*