| abstract |
A positioning device for positioning an instrument in three dimensions, the device comprising at least one arm which is essentially rigid having a first end and a second end, the second end being hinged relative to a support stand via at least one hinge axis, and said instrument being mounted on a support which is connected to the second end of the arm via at least one hinge axis, wherein said instrument comprises an exploration probe and said support for the instrument comprises a device for motion in translation enabling the instrument comprising the exploration probe to be moved in translation relative to the second end of the arm, making it possible to perform exploration for each of the translation positions. The invention enables the instrument at the end of the positioning device to be moved in translation, thereby providing a maximum amount of freedom for positioning the instrument in three dimensions and facilitating locating operations, particularly in the context of transrectal echographic location, this being particularly useful for therapeutic treatment of the prostate. |