The original caption may contain language which is historic and which may no longer be considered appropriate. It has been retained in the record in the interest of historical accuracy.
The caption on the reverse of the photograph reads: “Largest x-ray tube at London hospital (see full story). Photo shows:- Positive generator gives 600,000 volts of electricity. Potential of negative is same, joint constant potential thus being more than a million volts for application to X-ray tube, most powerful in world.”
The Mozelle Sasson High Voltage X-Ray Therapy Department was established through the aid of £15,000 donated by Mrs Meyer Sassoon. In 1921, the use of Deep X-Ray Therapy in the treatment of malignant disease was investigated, and staff recommended that it should be introduced at St Bartholomew’s. However, it was soon apparent that higher voltages would produce better results in a shorter time, with more accuracy and less effect on normal tissues. It was hoped that the X-Ray Therapy Department would revolutionise the treatment of cancer. Housed in a specially constructed building, with barium concrete as insulation against stray radiation, the department opened in 1936 and treated 5,000 patients before it ceased to be used in 1962. See also MED01/01/0121-0127, and MED01/02/0001. High-resolution copies of this image are available for free for non-commercial use. Please Enquire to place an order.
This is part of the Series: MED01/01 Series of prints; within the Collection: MED01 Topical Press Agency Medical Collection
Source: Historic England Archive
Photographer: Topical Press Agency Limited
Photographer: Harrison, Norman Kingsley
Radiography Department, Hospital, Science And Technology
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