When it comes to treating skin cancer, sometimes going under the knife isn’t always necessary. With treatments like IG-SRT (Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy), we can kill your skin cancer cells without any cutting or disruptions to your daily life. Because this treatment is not as well-known as treatments like Mohs Surgery, knowing what to expect before, during, and after IG-SRT is crucial for deciding whether or not this treatment is right for you. At Biltmore Dermatology in Terre Haute, IN, we offer IG-SRT treatment to those seeking a solution to their skin cancer.
What is IG-SRT Treatment?
IG-SRT stands for image-guided superficial radiation therapy and is a specific type of radiation used only for skin cancer. This is a non-surgical treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers. IG-SRT employs the use of very low-level X-ray energy to destroy the cancerous cells of the skin. The level of radiation is similar to the one used in a dentist’s office during X-rays. IG-SRT treatments use ultrasound imaging in order to determine the proper dose and energy for your specific condition. This treatment is an outpatient procedure that is administered in office at Biltmore Dermatology.
Benefits of IG-SRT
Treatments with IG-SRT have a 99% cure rate for basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, making them one of the most effective treatments available. Other benefits of IG-SRT include:
· Non-surgical
· Quick treatments
· Little to no downtime
· Painless
· Minimal scarring
What Happens During Treatment?
Every treatment you receive at Biltmore Dermatology will begin with an initial consultation to determine if you are a good candidate. Once you and your provider have chosen IG-SRT as your treatment option, you will come in for your simulation appointment. This appointment usually lasts around 45 minutes, and it is during this time that your provider and a radiation therapist will determine your treatment strength. After a thorough review of your medical history, biopsy report, and ultrasound results, you will be prescribed a treatment schedule and special skin care. Patients typically undergo 3-4 treatments a week for a total of 20 treatments. Each treatment appointment lasts for about 15 minutes. After every 5 treatments, you will meet with your provider to review your progress and discuss any questions or concerns you may have regarding your treatment.
Results and Recovery
Because IG-SRT is non-surgical and requires no cutting or incisions, it is a pain-free procedure that requires no downtime. IG-SRT treatment does not cause unsightly scars and leaves the patient with great cosmetic outcomes as well as health outcomes. After your final treatment, you will arrive back at your provider’s office in 4-6 weeks for a comprehensive follow-up. During this appointment, one final ultrasound will be taken to examine your treated skin, ensuring that the treatment was successful.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are suffering from non-melanoma skin cancer and are seeking a solution other than invasive procedures like Mohs surgery, IG-SRT treatment may be just the cure for you. To learn more about this innovative treatment and whether or not you are a candidate, schedule a consultation with the founder of Biltmore Dermatology, Ryan Patterson, DCNP. Head to our website to fill out an online contact form today.