Stereotactic localization of small subcortical brain tumors for open surgery.

A noninvasive, computed tomography (CT) stereoadapter was used for stereotactic localization of small brain tumors in 16 patients scheduled for open surgery. The stereotactic CT study was carried out 1 day to 3 months before surgery. On the day of surgery, the adapter was remounted on the patient's head. The tumor in relation to the adapter, as shown on the CT study, was drawn on the scalp of the patient. The tumor could be found and removed through a small bone opening and a minimal cortical incision.