Image guided sterotactic surgery involves the use of 3-D guidance systems to access diseased areas within the brain to facilitate craniotomy (opening of the skull, usually by creating a flap of bone) or to treat masses with focused radiation.  It can target a narrow x-ray beam and deliver a concentrated does of radiation to the affected area.

The term sterotactic originated from the Greek words stereo meaning three-dimensional and tactos meaning touched.

The use of these superior guidance techniques are more efficient by minimizing the size of the exposure and the invasiveness, as well as providing approach opportunities that may not apparent to the surgeon’s eye and minimizing the disturbance of brain tissue outside the area of treatment.  This means improved outcome, faster recuperation, and fewer complications.  Stereotactic radiosurgery is not typical surgery because there is no incision involved and general anesthesia is not required for adults.