X-ray apparatus for applying a predetermined flux to an interior surface of a body cavity
US5621780A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 27, 1995 |
| Grant date | Apr 15, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 27, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01J2201/342
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention is directed to an x-ray source for irradiating a surface defining a body cavity in accordance with a predetermined dose distribution. The source comprises a housing, an elongated tubular probe, a target assembly, and an inflatable balloon. The housing encloses an electron beam source and includes elements for generating an electron beam along a beam path. The tubular probe extends along a central axis from the housing about the beam path. The target assembly extends along the central axis and is coupled to the end of the probe distal from the housing. The target assembly includes a target element is positioned in the beam path. The target element is adapted to emit x-rays in response to electrons incident thereon from the beam. The probe tip assembly and associated control electronics include elements for positioning the target element in the beam path, and is substantially x-ray transparent. The balloon is affixed to the distal end of the probe and is inflatable so that when that probe end is inserted into a body cavity, the balloon may be inflated to stretch the cavity to a known shape. Positioning the probe tip inside the inflated balloon allows delivery of…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.