Development of a stereotaxic instrument for study of the bovine central nervous system.

We have developed a bovine stereotaxic instrument in this study to be used for Holstein cattle from weanling to adult age. The bovine stereotaxic instrument is derived from the Horsley-Clarke principle. A pair of straight ear-bars and orbital ridge pieces with their carriers, head clamps, AP bars are symmetrically arranged across the head pace. For holding the heavy heads, a hard palate and a mandibular support are designed to be placed on the surface of the base frame. A new manipulator with long working distance has also been made. For ventriculography, a holder inserting an X-ray film cassette is placed just next to the AP bar. Finally, the instrument was combined together with an oil-operated lift, so that it can be adjusted to a proper height. Details of this instrument are described in this paper.