An automated tumor resection device for neurological surgery.

A pneumatically activated cutting probe has been designed for the neurosurgical removal of nervous system tumors or diseased tissue. The hand-held probe is formed of concentric slender tubes, one reciprocating inside the other. A scalpel-sharp edge on the tip of the inner tube moves in a shear motion past a stationary port on one side near the distal end of the outer tube. The reciprocating motion of the inner tube is provided by a pneumatic power source housed in a separate control console.