A tomographic X-ray apparatus for the producing of transverse laminographic or tomographic images, constituted of an X-ray measuring arrangement having an X-ray source which generates an X-ray beam, whose cross-sectional expanse or spread perpendicular to the X-rayed layer is equal to the layer thickness, and in parallel to the layer is equal to the layer thickness or is lesser than the latter; and including a radiation receiver which measures the radiation intensity behind the object at successive equidistant points, as well as a drive installation for the measuring arrangement, consisting of a pivot mounting for producing rotary movements of the X-ray measuring arrangement through small equidistant angular increments about a rotational axis which is approximately coincident with the symmetrical longitudinal axis of the exposure object; as well as a slide carriage located on the pivot mounting for producing a linear scanning movement (scanning lift) of the X-ray measuring arrangement perpendicular to the direction of the central X-ray beam over the entire object expanse in an alternating sequence with each incremental rotary movement; and including a holding installation for the exposure object in the X-ray path consisting of a rectangular or box-shaped, in the radiation direction homogeneous and uniformly absorbent, compensating body of tissue-equivalent material encompassing the exposure object, which is fixedly connected with the pivot mounting of the X-ray measuring arrangement, whose extent in the direction of the scanning movement is equal to or larger than the scanning lift, and which possesses an elastic contouring body resting opposite the rotary compensating body, and which is closely located against the surface of the exposure object after the introduction of the latter into the compensating body.
A ray measuring arrangement for scanning of a selected transverse section is associated with a compensating body of tissue equivalent material having a patient-receiving through-aperture of size such that a patient may be moved into and through such aperture by means of motor driven patient supports at opposite longitudinal sides of the aperture. For cranial examination, a holder ring of tissue equivalent material is supported for longitudinal movement within the aperture of the compensating body, the holder having a position adjacent a patient support so that the motor drive can transport the patient longitudinally until the patient's head rests on an elastic contouring member of the holder. The contouring member is then filled with a suitable liquid so as to closely conform with the contour of the patient's head. Thereupon, further motorized drive of the patient support moves the patient and the holder longitudinally until the patient's head is correctly located for examination. The reverse process is followed so as to remove the patient from the operating position by the motorized drive, the patient thereby smoothly and comfortably being returned to the initial position on the patient's support. For whole body examination, the holder is readily removed from the aperture of the compensating body.
In the illustrative embodiment, an X-ray tube is attached to a rotary mounting, and the structural elements of the X-ray generator on the high voltage side are disposed on the rotary mounting in an oil-filled tank; for the transfer of energy, a rotating current coupling is provided between the rotary mounting and a stationary energy supply installation, e.g. a mains rectifier. The anode of the X-ray tube is connected to ground potential.
