An apparatus and method for irradiating target objects, especially medical stents
for in vivo implantation. A linear accelerator provides a high energy electron
beam that impinges upon and is received by an x-ray conversion target. The x-ray
conversion target is activated by either a static or dynamically moveable electron
beam to generate and emit an x-ray flux so as to efficiently intercept the target
object. The x-ray flux is directed to the target object for a desired time period
and is of sufficiently high energy to efficiently impart radioactive properties
to the target object. Alternatively, the target object is positioned within the
path of the x-ray flux or is translated within the path during irradiation. Mechanical
transport assemblies such as a carousel, rotational and/or linear translator and/or
movement tube system also may be provided.
