Design of a head fixation device for experiments in behaving monkeys

J Neurosci Methods. 2005 Feb 15;141(2):277-82. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2004.07.003.

Abstract

We have designed a new device for head fixation of behaving monkeys. The fixation device consists of a duralumin head ring mounted with four screw holders. It is firmly fixed to the animal's skull with four stainless steel screw pins. The head ring is then attached to a primate chair in any desirable position and angle using a set of adjustable plates. The device has been used for behavioral training that requires accurate gaze monitoring and for recording single-unit activity over a several-month period. The advantage of our device is that it is simple to use; it can be attached readily without major surgical procedures and it can be quickly removed when experiments are not running. This head fixation system is suitable for behavioral experiments and single-unit recording studies. It may also be applicable for studies on functional imaging of the macaque brain, by constructing it of non-magnetic materials.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials / physiology
  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal / physiology*
  • Electrophysiology / methods
  • Head / physiology*
  • Immobilization / methods*
  • Macaca fascicularis
  • Male
  • Prostheses and Implants
  • Saccades / physiology
  • Stereotaxic Techniques*
  • Time Factors
  • Wakefulness / physiology