Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus delivers x-rays to at least a portion of an interior surface of a body cavity. The apparatus includes a flexible catheter, at least one balloon or inflatable element affixed to the catheter, one or more flexible probe assemblies, an x-ray generator assembly coupled to the distal end of each probe assembly, and a power supply means. The flexible catheter includes one or more interior channels, and each flexible probe assembly is slidably positionable within a respective interior channel of the catheter. Each balloon, when inflated, defines a predetermined surface contour disposed about an interior region of a body cavity. Each flexible probe includes a transmission path for transmitting activating energy, and may be an optical fiber for transmitting optical energy. The x-ray generator assembly includes an electron source and a target element. The electron source emits electrons in response to activating optical energy transmitted through the transmission path. The target element generates electrons in accordance with a desired radiation profile, in response to electrons impinging thereon.

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First Claim