Accelerator
Accelerator
Accelerator (/ækˈsɛləreɪtər/), in the context of medicine, refers to a device that increases the speed of particles. It is often used in the field of Radiology and Oncology for the treatment of various types of Cancer.
Etymology
The term 'Accelerator' is derived from the Latin word 'accelerare', which means 'to hasten' or 'speed up'.
Usage in Medicine
In medicine, an accelerator, specifically a linear accelerator (LINAC), is used to deliver high-energy x-rays or electrons to a region of a patient's body. These high-energy beams can destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors, while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue.
Accelerators are also used in Proton therapy, a type of radiation therapy that uses energy from positively charged particles called protons. Proton therapy is often used to treat cancers located near vital organs or structures, as it allows for precise targeting of the cancer cells.
Related Terms
- Radiation therapy: A therapy that uses high-energy radiation to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells.
- Linear accelerator (LINAC): A device that uses electric fields to accelerate charged particles to high speeds, used in radiation therapy.
- Proton therapy: A type of radiation therapy that uses protons to treat cancer.
- Cancer: A group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Accelerator
- Wikipedia's article - Accelerator
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