HEAD STABILIZATION SYSTEM WITH CASSETTE FEATURES

Exemplary head stabilization devices or head fixation devices (HFDs) include a central head support for supporting a patient's head from beneath. The HFDs are connectable to a patient support device such as an operating table. The HFDs can include a cushion associated with the central head support or base assembly and pads extending from adjustable extension bars that provide lateral support. The cushion and/or pads comprise a fluid chamber and a shape-conforming material chamber. The chambers work together such that the cushion and/or pads conform to the patient's head and can be adjusted in position and pressure to provide stabilization to the patient's head. In some instances, the cushions and pads used with the HFDs can include multiple chambers that permit pressure control by way of controlling a fluid volume within specific chambers.