Compact x-ray generator utilizing cerium-target tube for angiography

The cerium-target x-ray tube is useful in order to perform cone beam K-edge angiography because K-series characteristic x rays from the cerium target are absorbed effectively by iodine-based contrast mediums. The x-ray generator consists of a main controller and a unit with a high-voltage circuit and a fixed anode x-ray tube. The tube is a glass-enclosed diode with a cerium target and a 0.5 mm-thick beryllium window. The maximum tube voltage and current were 65 kV and 0.4 mA, respectively, and the focal-spot sizes were 1.3x0.9 mm. Cerium K-series characteristic x rays were left using a 3.0 mm-thick aluminum filter, and the x-ray intensity was 0.59 muC/kg at 1.0 m from the source with a tube voltage of 60 kV, a current of 0.40 mA, and an exposure time of 1.0 s. Angiography was performed with a computed radiography system using iodine-based microspheres 15 mum in diameter. In angiography of non-living animals, we observed fine blood vessels of approximately 100 mum with high contrasts.