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| Typical Number in Hospital: 2 | Cost Bands: 6 | References: 4 |
High-energy X-rays are used to treat cancer, since some cancer cells are more susceptible to damage from electromagnetic radiation than ordinary cells. The energy of the X-rays (usually expressed in kilovoltage) determines the depth of penetration. Thus for superficial X-rays (suitable for skin treatment) 50-150 kV may be used. Conventional X-ray generators may be used to generate up to 500 kV rays. Higher energies require a linear accelerator or betatron.
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