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| Typical Number in Hospital: 1 | Cost Bands: 5,6 | References: 4 |
High energy X-rays (>25 MeV) can be produced by bombarding an X- ray target with an electron beam produced in a 'donut' shaped porcelain or glass circular tube between strong electromagnets. Control of the alternating magnetic flux (50-180 Hz) enables an electron beam to be steadily accelerated until released from the 'equilibrium orbit' by reducing the flux. The principle is somewhat similar to that used in the cyclotron. Such machines have been used in the radiotherapy department for the treatment of deep-seated tumours, although they are not often found in routine clinical use now.
Content and Design Copyright 2000 Dr. Malcolm C Brown. See Title Page for more details