Loop-X Cranial Navigation

Automatic Registration with Loop-X

Intraoperative X-ray images acquired by the Loop-X system are seamlessly transferred to Brainlab Navigation—regardless of patient position, including prone cases. With a 121 cm gantry opening and non-isocentric imaging, Loop-X enables tailored OR setups without repositioning.

Key Benefits:

• Scalable scan volume: 3 x 3 cm to 25 x 48 cm
• Low-dose protocols reduce radiation exposure
• Dynamic Collimation protects sensitive structures during 2D/3D scans
• Detects ventricles, lesions, and intraoperative bleeding (ICB)
• Enables implant verification in cranioplasty and precise targeting in pituitary/skull base surgery

Automatic Image Registration (AIR) for iMRI, iCT & More

AIR technology eliminates manual landmark registration by using integrated markers in headholders to automatically align intraoperative MRI, CT, CBCT, and angiography systems with preoperative plans.

This ensures surgical accuracy even in the presence of brain shift—without interrupting workflow.

Compatible with major MR scanner brands (Siemens, GE, Philips) and integrates universally with iCT, rotational angiography, and cone-beam CT.

Marker-Free Registration: Z-touch® & Softouch®

Eliminate fiducials and extra scans with surface-matching registration:

Reduces registration time by up to 50% and lowers radiation exposure for patients and staff.

Approach Planning: Visualize Before You Incise

Cranial Navigation provides a comprehensive 3D roadmap before the first incision.

• Automatic segmentation of skin, bone, cortical vessels, and cerebrum
• 3D preview of lesion and critical structures
• Virtual Scalpel simulates craniotomy and generates a saveable bone flap
• MIP-based visualization highlights surface vasculature

Vascular Navigation with DSA Integration

Cranial Navigation Angio™ transforms digital subtraction angiography (DSA) into a dynamic navigational tool.

• Co-registers angiography with MR/CT anatomical data
• Color Intensity Projection (CIP) visualizes flow direction
• Identifies feeding/draining vessels and nidus location
• Enhances precision in AVM, tumor, and vascular malformation surgery

Robotic Biopsy Alignment with Cirq

The Cirq alignment software enables intuitive manual positioning of the robotic arm, followed by automatic trajectory alignment to the planned biopsy path.

• Automatic alignment after manual arm positioning
• Visual guidance toward region of interest via intuitive interface
• Skull anchor ensures stability during deep biopsies
• Seamlessly integrates with Elements Trajectory Planning

Frameless Precision with VarioGuide®

The VarioGuide® Alignment System delivers frame-based accuracy without the need for a rigid head frame.

• Adapts to instruments from Ø 1.8 mm to 8 mm
• Dedicated Cranial Biopsy Drill Kit minimizes trajectory deviation
• Software-supported bone thickness measurement prevents over-drilling
• Disposable pre-calibrated biopsy needle (Ø 2.1 mm) integrates directly into navigation