On this page
What is Superficial Radiation Therapy?
Image-guided superficial radiation therapy (IG-SRT) is a modern treatment option for treating skin cancer. According to a landmark clinical study, Image-Guided Superifical Radiotherapy (IG-SRT) can and should be considered the first-line non-invasive treatment for patients with non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC).
In the past MOHS surgery has been a first-line treatment for skin cancer removal. However, given the chances of scarring and disfigurement, pain, lengthy recovery times, and being an invasive procedure have been negative factors for many patients who would strongly prefer a non-invasive treatment option.
IG-SRT comes as the FIRST and ONLY skin cancer treatment with high-frequency ultrasound imaging that delivers:
- A 99%+ cure rate in basal and squamous cell carcinomas,
- Precise targeting of cancer cells and less collateral damage to healthy tissue
- Visual reassurance of tumor shrinkage over course of treatment
- Predictable, consistent results and a superior cosmetic outcome. For these reasons, IG-SRT is our preferred treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer.
How does IG-SRT work?
IG-SRT works by administering low-dose radiation to the skin from outside the body, checking your progress with ultrasound technology. With a series of treatments, IG-SRT can precisely target and destroy non melanoma skin cancers or keloids without incisions or discomfort. IG-SRT only penetrates a few millimeters into the skin, meaning there is no risk that it radiates to the deeper tissues or organs.
Superficial Radiation Therapy Candidates
Candidates for IG-SRT are patients who have undergone a biopsy and are considering skin cancer treatment options. Because IG-SRT comes with a very minimal risk of scarring, it can be especially attractive for patients who have a history of scarring or whose growth is in a visible area. We prefer IG-SRT for all skin cancer patients because of its extremely high 99%+ cure rate.
Image-Guided SRT is an ideal treatment for patients that:
- Are not surgical candidates due to advancing age, concomitant drug therapy (blood thinners), preexisting medical conditions (diabetes, statis dermatitis, chronic edema), and circulatory compromise
- Fear surgery and would prefer a non-invasive treatment (no cutting, bleeding, or pain)
- Prefer a treatment option with a 99%+ cure rate for both basal and squamous cell carcinoma.
- Seek favorable cosmetic outcomes and want to avoid the potential for scarring and disfigurement, lenthgy recovery times, and expensive reconstructive surgery that accompanies 1 in 3 patients after Mohs Surgery.
Our Dermatology Certified provider and his Radiation Therapy team of experts can help you determine whether IG-SRT is the best option for you during your consultation.
REAL PATIENT RESULTS
Visit our gallery to see the Biltmore Difference. We pride ourselves on consistently great results and it is our happy patients who are a true testament to our work.
VIEW BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
What to Expect During Superficial Radiation Therapy Treatment
SRT occurs over multiple sessions. Most patients require about 20 total sessions which are scheduled about three days per week. The full treatment process is as follows:
Biopsy
Our certified dermatology provider will perform a biopsy on the growth. This includes taking a small sample of tissue so it can be assessed under a microscope and diagnosed by a board certified dermatopathologist.
Biopsy Results
At your follow up appointment our Dermatology Certified provider will discuss the results of your biopsy and whether it has been identified as a skin cancer. Our team will discuss your best treatment options available.
Insurance and Financing
Our team will perform a verification of benefits to help you calculate costs based on your specific insurance. There are also healthcare financing options available and our team can help you locate the correct information if needed.
Preparation
During a preparatory appointment, our board certified radiation therapy team will discuss your treatment plan and begin taking images and assessing the area with ultrasound technology. We will formulate a treatment plan based on the area and the number of treatments needed.
Treatment
Each treatment session will begin by assessing your progress and whether any negative reactions are occurring on the skin. Then, ultrasound technology will be used to image the area and monitor progress. Finally, the radiation will be applied to the skin and treatment will be administered. These sessions typically take 10-15 minutes in total.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
After your last session, you will meet with our Dermatology Certified provider as well as members of the Radiation Therapy team for a final ultrasound image to ensure the area has been fully treated. From there, you will be scheduled for periodic skin examinations to check for any new growths or other areas of concern.
WALK-IN APPOINTMENTS
If you have an immediate concern, you want to find quality care as soon as possible. Our office takes walk-in appointments and will be happy to address your concerns and offer you immediate treatment suggestions and medical care.
LEARN MORESuperficial Radiation Therapy Results and Recovery
There are no restrictions on activities after SRT treatments and you can typically return to your normal daily lifestyle. Unlike surgical excision, there is no risk of scarring or damage to the skin. This makes it one of the best options available for growths in visible areas like the face, neck, or shoulders.
SRT has a very high rate of success but there is always the very remote (0.7%) possibility of recurrence. It’s essential to protect the skin with a broad sunscreen with at least SPF 30+ daily to all sun exposed areas and check in regularly with your certified dermatology provider. Continue to monitor your skin at home and call our team right away if you see any changes.
Schedule a Consultation
SRT is the most effective and advanced way to treat non melanoma skin cancer. To meet with our team and learn more, call our Terre Haute, IN office, fill out our online contact form, or “Walk In Now.”
RYAN T. PATTERSON FOUNDER/CEO, DCNP
Ryan is State Licensed and Nationally Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner (NP-C) by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Additionally, he is board certified as a Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner (DCNP) by the Dermatology Nursing Certification Board. He has 20+ years of Dermatology Experience.
Meet The Team
Testimonials
Testimonials
SHOP SKINCARE PRODUCTS
We rely on medical-grade skincare products with quality ingredients clinically proven to restore and maintain skin health. Find your perfect products and develop a customized skincare routine designed to your skin type and skin concerns.