What is image guided superficial radiation therapy?
Image Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT) is a modern, non-surgical treatment that uses a small, low-energy X-ray device to treat certain types of skin cancer. Instead of cutting the skin, the system delivers a focused dose of electronic not radioactive radiation directly to the surface of the tumor. It is FDA approved for use in cancer treatment and can be used as a stand-alone treatment for skin cancer and as an adjunct to dermatologic surgery. The system allows for precise targeting of the cancerous skin. It offers a non-surgical alternative for patients who choose to avoid surgery.
How does image guided superficial radiation therapy work?
A soft applicator is placed against the skin, and a miniature X-ray source targets only the affected area minimizing damage to nearby healthy skin. There are no incisions, no stitches, and no radioactive materials. Because the radiation only travels a short distance into the skin, IG-SRT is ideal for shallow skin cancers located on delicate areas such as the face, ears, nose, and scalp where cosmetic outcomes matter.
How image guided superficial radiation therapy? is used?
Treatment with IG-SRT is performed in the comfort of a dermatology office. You sit or lie comfortably while the applicator is positioned over the lesion. Once aligned, the device delivers a controlled dose of electronic radiation. Patients do not feel pain during the treatment, and each session usually lasts only a few minutes. Since nothing enters the body and no anesthesia or recovery time is needed, most patients return to their usual routine immediately after each session. The treatment plan is divided into multiple small sessions, allowing the surrounding skin to heal gradually while effectively targeting the cancer.
When is image guided superficial radiation therapy? recommended?
IG-SRT may be recommended for patients who want a non-surgical option or who are not good candidates for surgery. It may be appropriate if you wish to avoid a scar, have medical conditions that make healing difficult, take blood thinners, or have lesions in an area where surgery could cause cosmetic or functional changes. It is also an option for early, superficial cancers or for patients who have had recurrences after previous treatments. IG-SRT is not used for melanoma but is well-suited for many non-melanoma skin cancers that sit close to the skin’s surface.
What does image guided superficial radiation therapy treat?
IG-SRT is commonly used to treat non-melanoma skin cancers including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common forms of skin cancer. It may also be used as part of treatment for raised scars called keloids to reduce the chance of the scar returning after removal. Because the therapy is focused and shallow, it is particularly useful for skin cancers on high-visibility areas where preserving appearance is a priority.
How many sessions are needed?
Most patients require a series of short treatments rather than a single session. Treatment plans often include fifteen to twenty short sessions scheduled over several weeks. Each visit lasts only a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately afterward. Our team will customize your treatment plan based on the size, depth, and type of skin cancer.
Who is a good candidate for image guided superficial radiation therapy?
IG-SRT represents an alternative and attractive option for patients who may be poor surgical candidates. This includes patients on blood thinners who are at increased risk of bleeding during and after skin cancer surgery that makes IG-SRT a viable option. Furthermore, for patients where scarring from surgery may result in significant disfigurement, physical and emotional trauma, the IG-SRT procedure represents a painless option with an excellent cosmetic outcome. For patients who are experiencing surgical fatigue from numerous skin cancer surgeries, this advanced procedure is often a welcome change.
Can image guided superficial radiation therapy be used instead of Mohs surgery?
For the vast majority of skin cancers IG-SRT remains a viable option with a reported 98% cure rate and excellent cosmetic outcomes. However, certain tumors still require Mohs surgery for the highest cure rate. Dr. Neidig will recommend the best approach for your specific diagnosis.
If you have been diagnosed with a non-melanoma skin cancer IG-SRT may be the solution you are looking for. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lane Neidig, MD in Annapolis, Maryland offers advanced, patient-centered care using the latest technology in skin cancer treatment. To find out whether IG-SRT is right for you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Neidig today.