ORTHOVOLTAGE Meaning and
Definition
-
Orthovoltage is a term commonly used in the field of medical physics and radiation therapy. It refers to a specific range of radiation therapy energies, typically between 250 kiloelectron volts (kV) and 1000 kV.
In the context of radiation therapy, orthovoltage radiation beams are characterized by their high energy levels and deep penetration capabilities. They are typically produced by specialized X-ray machines called orthovoltage units or orthovoltage generators. These machines are designed to deliver a concentrated dose of radiation to cancerous tumors, while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Orthovoltage radiation therapy is particularly effective in treating superficial tumors located close to the skin surface or in deeper tissues. The energy range of orthovoltage beams allows for precise targeting and exquisitely controlled delivery of radiation to the tumor site. Compared to lower energy radiation types such as megavoltage, orthovoltage therapy offers certain advantages such as reduced skin toxicity and the ability to treat thicker tumors or those located closer to critical structures.
Orthovoltage is widely used in the treatment of various types of cancers, including skin cancer, breast cancer, and head and neck tumors. It is often administered as a primary treatment or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy.
Overall, orthovoltage plays a crucial role in radiation therapy, providing a valuable treatment option for oncology patients while helping to achieve better treatment outcomes.
Common Misspellings for ORTHOVOLTAGE
- irthovoltage
- krthovoltage
- lrthovoltage
- prthovoltage
- 0rthovoltage
- 9rthovoltage
- oethovoltage
- odthovoltage
- ofthovoltage
- otthovoltage
- o5thovoltage
- o4thovoltage
- orrhovoltage
- orfhovoltage
- orghovoltage
- oryhovoltage
- or6hovoltage
- or5hovoltage
- ortgovoltage
- ortbovoltage
Etymology of ORTHOVOLTAGE
The word "orthovoltage" has its roots in the Greek language.
The prefix "ortho-" comes from the Greek word "orthos", meaning "straight" or "correct". This prefix is commonly used in scientific terminology to indicate correctness or straightness.
The term "voltage" originates from the Latin word "volt", which is derived from the name of Italian physicist Alessandro Volta, who invented the first battery. "Voltage" refers to the electric potential difference or electromotive force that exists between two points, causing the flow of electric current.
In essence, "orthovoltage" combines the Greek prefix "ortho-" indicating correctness or straightness, with the scientific term "voltage" relating to electric potential difference.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
