Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy


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What is Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy?

Image-guided superficial radiation therapy (IG-SRT) is a non-surgical therapy method for non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It is an excellent alternative to surgery for skin cancer in sensitive and hard-to-reach locations. Sometimes, it can be combined with other treatments as well. There are many benefits to undergoing image-guided superficial radiation therapy, including:

  • Requires short treatment sessions.
  • Is safe and effective.
  • Results in minimal to no scarring.
  • Requires no anesthesia.
  • Quick recovery time.

How is Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Given?

During image-guided superficial radiation therapy, a beam of low-energy X-ray electrons is used. These forms of radiation do not go deep into the skin, limiting side effects to other body tissues and organs. This radiation is strong enough to hinder the ability of cancer to spread by altering the DNA of the cells it inhabits. As a result, the cancerous tissues are starved to death. The procedure itself is painless, and each treatment takes about fifteen minutes to complete. Most people will need multiple sessions for ideal results.

It is important to understand that image-guided superficial radiation therapy comes with some side effects, which are usually limited to the treated area. These include skin irritation, changes in skin color, or hair loss in the targeted area.  Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you are concerned regarding any side effects, as your health is our first priority.

Image-Guided Superficial Radiation FAQs

Does radiation weaken your immune system?

Radiation therapy may affect your immune system depending on the extent of your treatment.

What is image-guided superficial radiation therapy?

Image-guided superficial radiation therapy involves administering radiation through X-rays so that it only penetrates the surface of the skin.

How much does IG-SRT therapy cost?

On average, image-guided superficial radiation therapy costs about $2,500-3,500.

Does radiation shorten your life?

Radiation therapy does not cause any long-term problems or affect your lifespan.

Is image-guided superficial radiation therapy covered by insurance?

IG-SRT is typically covered by health insurance to treat skin cancer.

How to Care for Your Treatment Site

To best care for your treatment area, it is important that you wash the skin lightly with gentle soap and pat dry. Patients should not wear perfumes or deodorants of any kind on the treatment area without Dr. Erwin’s approval. Be sure to always cover the area with clothing or sunscreen, as the skin will be more sensitive to sunlight when being treated, and right after treatment is completed.

Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy Recovery

After the procedure, you can expect little to no scarring, little downtime, and fast healing and recovery. While it is very unlikely that skin cancer will return following image-guided superficial radiation therapy, it does occur sometimes. In these cases, it will then have to be treated surgically. Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any post-treatment questions or concerns, as your health is our first priority.

Contact Us Today

If you have been diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer, image-guided superficial radiation therapy is a safe and effective treatment option. Contact our office today by calling 979-543-9933 to schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Erwin to get started.

We understand that skin cancer diagnosis and treatment can be stressful and cause anxiety, which is why we will take the time to answer any questions that you may have to ensure you are completely comfortable with the treatment.

IG-SRT Informational Links