Abstract: Devices and related methods are provided for irradiating a portion of a body. A device according to one embodiment can include a radiation needle, a fluorescent target, and an x-ray transmitting window. The radiation needle can include a radiation conduit having a first and second end for passing primary x-rays. An x-ray generator can generate the primary x-rays and pass the primary x-rays from the first end to second end. The fluorescent target can connect to the second end for absorbing the primary x-rays and produce by fluorescence secondary x-rays for irradiating a predetermined portion of the body. The fluorescent target having a surface for absorbing the primary x-rays to fluoresce and emit said secondary x-rays. The x-ray transmitting window can be positioned adjacent to the fluorescent target such that the secondary x-rays exit through the x-ray transmitting window. The secondary x-rays can irradiate target tissue within the body.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved apparatus for the comminution of concretions in vivo by controlled, concentrated cavitation energy using two shock wave pulses with a specified time delay and pressure relationship, with the first shock wave pulse being used to induce a transient cavitation bubble cluster near the target concretion, and the second shock wave pulse to control and force the collapse of the cavitation bubble cluster towards the target concretion with concentrated energy disposition while avoiding injury to surrounding tissue. The invention contemplates the use of an improved combined electrohydraulic or electromagnetic and a piezoelectric annular array shock wave generator to produce improved stone comminution with reduced tissue injury in vivo.