An accelerator that produces high-speed ions ( e.g., protons and deuterons) under the influence of an alternating magnetic field, for bombardment and disruption of atomic nuclei. Used to produce clinically useful positron-emitting radionuclides. [cyclo- + G. -tron, instrumental suffix]
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cy·clo·tron 'sī-klə-.trän n an accelerator in which charged particles (as protons, deuterons, or ions) are propelled by an alternating electric field in a constant magnetic field
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n.
a machine in which charged particles following a spiral path within a magnetic field are accelerated by an alternating electric field. It produces very high-energy electromagnetic radiation, which has been used in the treatment of certain cancers, particularly of the eye. It is little used on account of severe adverse effects on the tissues following treatment. Cyclotrons are now being used to manufacture short-lived radioactive isotopes for nuclear medicine scanning (see positron emission tomography).
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cy·clo·tron (siґklo-tron) an apparatus for accelerating charged particles (such as protons, deuterons, or ions) to high energies by a combination of a constant magnet and an oscillating electric field.Medical dictionary. 2011.