X-ray apparatus for applying a predetermined flux to an interior surface of a body cavity

A method for applying x-rays to an interior surface of a body cavity comprising the steps of:

• A. providing an x-ray source including:
• i. a tubular element having a beam source end and a target end and defining an interior region extending along a source axis between said source end and said target end,
• ii. beam source means, disposed proximal to said beam source end, for generating an electron beam passing substantially along said source axis toward said target end,
• iii. target means, disposed proximal to said target end, for generating x-rays in response to incidence thereon of said electron beam, and
• iv. control means for selectively activating said beam source means such that said electron beam is incident on said target means, and
• B. providing a balloon assembly including an inflatable balloon positioned at said target end of said tubular element, and defining an interior region adjacent to and extending beyond said target end when inflated,
• C. inserting said tubular element into the body such that said target end occupies a predetermined location within said body cavity,
• D. inflating said balloon,
• E. operating said control means such that said electron beam is incident on said target, thereby generating said x-rays.

A kit for applying x-rays to an interior surface of a body cavity, said kit comprising:

• A. an x-ray source including:
• i. a tubular element having a beam source end and a target end and defining an interior region extending along a source axis between said source end and said target end, said tubular element having an outer diameter D1,
• ii. beam source means, disposed proximal to said beam source end, for generating an electron beam passing substantially along said source axis toward said target end,
• iii. target means, disposed proximal to said target end, for generating x-rays in response to incidence thereon of said electron beam, and
• iv. control means for selectively activating said beam source means such that said electron beam is incident on said target means, and
• B. a source guidance tube extending along a central axis and having a proximal end and a distal end, said tubular element defining an interior channel extending along said central axis, said interior channel having an inner diameter D2.
• C. a balloon assembly including an inflatable balloon positioned at the distal end of said source guidance tube, and defining an interior region disposed adjacent and extending beyond said distal end when inflated,
• wherein D2 is greater than D1, whereby said target end of said tubular element of said X-ray source is slidably positionable within and beyond said distal end of said interior channel of said source guidance tube, and into said interior region of said balloon.