Removable skull mounted work platform and method of assembling same

Abstract

A device for facilitating the insertion of an instrument such as a surgical or observational tool into a patient's cranial cavity through a previously formed aperture in the cranium. The device comprises a guide with an open elongated tubular member having a first and a second end, wherein at least a portion of the tubular member at the first and thereof is configured and adapted for passage through the aperture. An outer surface portion of the open tubular member is configured for engagement with a separate locking apparatus for securing the device to the cranial surface. The device further comprises a flanged tip on the first end of the tubular member for stabilizing it within the aperture. An alignment stand configured for the passage therethrough of at least a portion of the device is seated upon the cranium directly above the aperture. The guide is inserted therethrough and into the cranial cavity. Subsequently, an elongated tubular member is inserted into the guide, which spreads the flanged tips therof, thus creating an interference fit between the flanges and the inner surface of the cranium. A locking ring, positioned upon the guide above the alignment stand, is utilized to secure the device against the cranium by screwing the ring in the direction of the stand. A method for assembling the device within a burr hole previously prepared in the patient's cranium is additionally disclosed.