Abstract: A system is disclosed for producing images representing radiation dose distributions in order to verify the radiation dose applied to a target area. The system uses a phantom assembly constructed of material that is the radiological equivalent of live tissue. The phantom assembly has slits where radiation sensitive film can be inserted and can include a channel for an insertable radiation generating device. The treatment dose is then applied to the phantom and the radiation sensitive film records the dose. A CCD camera microdensitometer is then used to read the exposed radiation sensitive film. The CCD camera microdensitometer includes a computer system which processes the image to remove artifacts and generates isodose contours for the radiation treatment applied. In addition, several pieces of radiation sensitive film in different planes can be exposed and processed in order to produce images representing the radiation dose distribution in three dimensions.

Abstract: A method of treating brain tumors in a patient, comprising the steps of: identifying and locating a brain tumor in vivo by affixing a stereotactic frame to the head of the patient, performing a computer tomographic (CT) scan of the skull of the patient to determine the location, size, and shape of the tumor with respect to the stereotactic frame, performing a biopsy by inserting an extraction tool along a path measured with respect to the frame to the tumor location, extracting a tissue from the location, removing the needle and the extracted tissue and analyzing the tissue; implanting at least a portion of an adjustable x-ray radiation source in the patient proximate the tumor, the adjustable radiation source including an electron beam source outside the head of the patient, and directing an electron beam produced by the source outside the head of the patient along the path to the location; and controlling the source to generate an x-ray radiation pattern characterized by a spatial and temporal distribution,

Abstract: This invention is directed to an x-ray source comprising a housing, an elongated tubular probe, a target assembly, and a beam steering assembly. The housing encloses an electron beam source, and has elements for generating an electron beam along a beam path. The elongated tubular probe extends along a central axis from the housing about the beam path. The target assembly extends along the central axis and is adapted for coupling to the end of the probe distal form the housing. The target assembly includes a target element positioned along the beam path, wherein the target element is adapted to emit x-rays in a predetermined spectral range in response to incident electrons. The beam steering assembly includes a deflection element, a feedback network, and a deflection controller. The deflection element deflects the beam from a nominal axis to a selected surface region on the target element in response to a deflection control signal.

Abstract: This invention is directed to an x-ray source comprising a power supply, a flexible fiber optic cable assembly, a light source, and a target assembly. The power supply includes a first terminal and a second terminal, and elements for establishing an output voltage between the first terminal and the second terminal. The flexible fiber optical cable assembly has an originating end and a terminating end, and includes a fiber optical element extending from the originating end to the terminating end. The cable is adapted for transmitting light incident on the originating end to the terminating end. The light source includes elements for generating a beam of light at and directed to the originating end of the fiber optical cable assembly. The target assembly is affixed to the terminating end of the fiber optical cable assembly and is electrically coupled to the power supply by way of the first terminal and the second terminal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an x-ray source for irradiating a volume in accordance with a predetermined dose distribution. The source comprises a housing, an elongated tubular probe, and a target assembly. 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 adapted for coupling to the end of the probe distal from the housing. The target assembly includes a target element, a probe tip assembly, and a variable transmission shield. The 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.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating a brain tumor in a patient, which includes an x-ray source of preselected or preprogrammed duration and intensity assembled in combination with a reference frame. The reference frame can be, for example, a stereotactic frame. The apparatus allows accurate positioning of the x-ray source within or adjacent to the desired region to be irradiated in the brain of the patient.

Abstract: A low-level, electron beam activated source of preselected or programmable duration and intensity x-rays. The source may be fully or partially implanted into, or surface-mounted onto a desired area to affect a preselected irradiated region. In medical applications, a method of treating malignant cells, such as tumors, in vivo, utilizing the apparatus described above.