Image Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT)
GentleCure is a gentle, surgery-free treatment that is safe and has a 99%+ cure rate in certain basal and squamous cell skin cancers. Treatment is done in our offices over the course of a few weeks using an advanced Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy machine. It is the only skin cancer treatment with ultra-sound imaging that lets you see the cancer on the screen and review the progress made throughout the course of treatment until there are no visible signs of cancer.
What is IG-SRT?
Treasure Coast Dermatology strives to be a leader in the prevention and treatment of skin cancer. With the addition of Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT) for the treatment of skin cancer at all of our locations, we are furthering that goal and becoming one of the most comprehensive skin cancer treatment centers in the state.
IG-SRT is the most advanced office-based superficial radiation treatment available. It combines the proven effectiveness of superficial radiation therapy (SRT) combined with ultrasound imaging, allowing us to fine tune your treatment dosing and watch your skin cancer shrink over time.
IG-SRT is effective, painless, and does not involve any surgery. If you are interested in learning more about whether you are a good candidate for IG-SRT, please request an appointment in our office today.
What kinds of skin cancer can IG-SRT treat?
IG-SRT can be used to treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common types of skin cancer. It is not used to treat melanoma.
What is the treatment for IG-SRT like?
On your first visit, we evaluate the size and location of the skin cancer and review the pathology report with you. Then, a treatment area is drawn, the tumor depth is measured with high frequency ultrasound, and a “simulation” is performed. A simulation is when we determine what kind of shielding will be required to protect the surrounding skin and how that shielding will be placed on your body. This is a painless process and is similar to what occurs when visiting a radiation oncologist. There is no treatment performed at the first visit, as some planning and calculations need to occur in order to treat you with the correct dose.
After the simulation appointment described above, you with then return to the office 2-3x weekly (for a total of 20 visits) to receive small doses, or “fractions,” of treatment. Each of these appointments typically lasts 15 minutes and involves setting up the treatment area with shielding followed by actual treatment for about 20-40 seconds. The treatment is painless.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cure rates for IG-SRT?
IG-SRT has a proven track record as an effective treatment for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Numerous studies have demonstrated cure rates that range between 92-99%. These cure rates are based on selection of appropriate tumors by your provider.
What is the difference between IG-SRT and traditional radiation therapy at the hospital?
Both IG-SRT and electron beam radiation therapy (which is typically used in the hospital setting) are effective treatments for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. IG-SRT, as the name implies, treats skin cancers that are superficial (thin) in nature. For most situations, IG-SRT can treat deep enough to cure most skin cancer. However, some skin cancers invade deeply, are high risk (due to location, size, or histology), or track down nerves and/or blood vessels. In these cases, a combination of surgery and/or electron beam radiation therapy are used to achieve a cure.
I’m not sure whether IG-SRT or MOHS surgery will be better for me.
If you are not sure which treatment option will be best for you, we can help. When you come in for your visit, we will sit down and discuss the pros and cons of each treatment in the setting of your overall health picture, your goals, and the characteristics of your skin cancer.
Are there any side effects of IG-SRT?
Like any medical treatment, there are potential expected and unexpected side effects from SRT. At your visit, these will be reviewed in detail.
- Pink/redness/peeling in the treatment area during the course of treatment (similar to a sunburn)
- Loss of hair in the treatment area
- Treatment failure (recurrence of skin cancer)
- Minor skin/pigment change several years following treatment
- Theoretical increased risk of skin cancer in treatment area many years following treatment
- Increased risk of reduced ability to heal in high-risk areas such as the lower leg
Request An Appointment Today!
Interested in learning more about skin cancer treatment with Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT)? Call 877-870-3376 to request an appointment.