Reusable, Sterilizable Surgical Instruments for Deployment of Neuropixels Probes in the Operating Room

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a system of reusable, sterilizable 3D-printed surgical tools that enables safe, precise intraoperative deployment of Neuropixels probes within standard neurosurgical workflows.

Full Description

This technology provides a suite of modular, biocompatible, and sterilizable 3D-printed surgical instruments designed specifically to overcome the limitations of existing stereotactic hardware for Neuropixels probe deployment. The system includes a centralized probe holder with anti-rotation features and depth-marked guides, compatible with leading neurosurgical platforms such as the ExcelsiusGPS® robotic navigation system and CRW stereotactic frame. Fabricated from Class I medical-grade Surgical Guide resin, these tools enable reproducible, high-precision placement of neural probes during surgery and translational neuroscience research, facilitating advanced intraoperative neurophysiology in large-brain species and paving the way for human clinical use.

Applications

• Intraoperative deployment of Neuropixels neural probes during human neurosurgery. 
• Translational neuroscience research in large-brain animal models such as non-human primates. 
• Advanced neural recording studies requiring high-density, multi-regional brain data collection. 
• Integration with robotic navigation systems and stereotactic frames for enhanced surgical precision. 
• Development of next-generation clinical neurophysiology devices and surgical tools.

Features/Benefits

• Enables repeated use and sterilization through autoclave or low-temperature processes. 
• Ensures biocompatibility and compliance with international standards using Class I medical-grade 3D-printing resin. 
• Solves limitations of aluminum components by offering sterilizability, axial alignment, anti-rotation, and precise depth control. 
• Provides modular components optimized for diverse surgical environments and systems. 
• Facilitates accurate and repeatable electrode placement in large-brain species and intraoperative human procedures. 
• Integrates with major robotic navigation and stereotactic frame technologies. 
• Problems Solved Replaces non-sterilizable hardware, expanding clinical neurosurgical use of Neuropixels probes. 
• Restores precise axial alignment and rotational control lacking in standard probe holders. 
• Introduces fine depth markings for precise probe insertion. 
• Ensures compatibility with widely used neurosurgical robotic and stereotactic platforms. 
• Simplifies safe management of electrical cables within sterile surgical fields.

Patent Status

Patent Pending