Stereotactic surgery: the early years

ALTHOUGH STEREOTACTIC SURGERY was conceived at the turn of the 20th century, human applications did not gain momentum until the 1950s. Modern stereotactic surgery, as currently practiced, has rapidly developed in the past decade with computer assistance obviating the need for invasive localization techniques and ultimately leading to the development of frameless instruments. Applications of these techniques have also greatly expanded the use of stereotactic methods beyond functional neurosurgery. This article describes the author's involvement in the early development of stereotactic surgery, beginning in the late 1950s. With the recognition that physiological confirmation of targets is important in improving the safety and accuracy of functional stereotactic surgery, a number of approaches were developed that are still in use today.