GREAT X-RAY PLANT.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20432, 12 June 1928, Page 16

GREAT X-RAY PLANT.

FOR TREATING CANCER. INSTALLED IN A SYDNEY HOSPITAL. (Feom Oub Own Cobef.spondent.) SYDNEY, May 24. One of the largest and most powerful X-ray machines in the world has been installed at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, to be used in an attempt to cure all forms of cancer. It is now ready for use by the Cancer Research Committee, which is supervising the expenditure of the vast sum raised in Sydney for cancer research purposes. The machine cost £SOOO and operates a Coolidge water-cooled tube specially produced for the treatment of all cancerous growths. This tube alone cost £l6O. The apparatus above the patient is controlled by a transformer in an adjoining room, by which the ordinary electric power is changed to high voltage current suitable for the production of the ray. The doctor concentrates the ray on the growth and leaves the room to avoid exposure to the rays. A door, lined with lead, is closed, and the doctor observes the patient through a window of ray-proof glass. Next to him is the scientist controlling the various switches and devices which set the machine in motion. A cord is placed in the hands of the patient, and when it is pulled a bell rings continuously until the doctor enters the broom. It is possible for the doctor to stop the machine instantly by pressing a small button. The Cancer Research Committe has already inspected the machine, which may put it into operation within the next week or so.