Patent ID: 7120224
Filing Date: 2006-10-10
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An x-ray imaging apparatus for mammography, the apparatus comprising: a primary x-ray source for generating x-ray radiation; a collimator with capillary optics which direct and focus the x-ray radiation, the collimator being in optical communication with the primary x-ray source; means for monochromatizing the radiation positioned within the collimator; means for shaping the radiation, positioned within the capillary optics; an optically transparent paddle for supporting an anatomical site of interest while allowing the passage of x-ray radiation; and means for registering an image of the anatomical site, the apparatus thereby delivering monochromatic x-rays with a suitable energy, intensity, and space distribution and transforming the focal spot of the x-ray tube to a position in close proximity to a compression paddle, or directly to a desired region of tissue, the characteristics of the x-rays being adjustable in accordance with a desired imaging procedure.