Multidrive
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The base of a generic chamber is customized to fit the individual subject's skull surface at the approximate position that the electrodes should be implanted (within a few millimeters precision). This is achieved through boolean subtraction of the skull surface model (ideally generated from CT data acquired from the subject in question) from an existing surface model (.stl file) of the chamber.
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An initial surgery is performed in which the customized chamber is implanted on the intact skull surface, using ceramic screws and dental acrylic.
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After recovery, a high-resolution T1-weighted anatomical MRI scan is performed, with a gadolinium contrast agent filled grid in place, allowing for precise visualization of the chamber position and orientation relative to the anatomical target(s). This data is used to calculate which grid holes and depths are required in order for the electrodes to reach their targets. A new custom grid and microdrive platform is produced based on this.
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A second surgery is performed in which one or more small craniotomies are made inside the chamber, using a custom jig for guiding the drill bit position, orientation and depth. Guide tubes and custom grid are then inserted
