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We are thrilled to announce the availability of superficial radiation therapy (SRT) for non-melanoma skin cancer at Wellspring Oncology! SRT offers a non-invasive and highly effective treatment option for patients with non-melanoma skin cancer. This treatment has many advantages:
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Non-Invasive and Painless: SRT is a non-surgical procedure that does not involve any cutting, stitches, or anesthesia, and the treatments are painless.
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Excellent Cosmetic Results: The treatment avoids surgical scarring, which is a significant benefit for cancers in visible areas like the face, nose, and ears.
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No Downtime or Recovery Period: Patients can return to their normal daily activities, including work and exercise, immediately after each short treatment session.
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Effective in Difficult-to-Treat Areas: SRT is particularly well-suited for treating cancers in locations where surgery could be complex or result in functional or cosmetic issues, such as the eyelids, lips, or the tip of the nose.
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Ideal for Poor Surgical Candidates: It is an excellent option for patients who may not be able to undergo surgery due to age, other health conditions, or because they are on blood-thinning medications.
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High Cure Rates: For appropriately selected non-melanoma skin cancers, SRT offers high cure rates, typically reported between 97% and 99%.
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Minimal and Localized Side Effects: Side effects are generally mild, temporary, and confined to the treated area, often resembling a sunburn that heals after treatment is complete.
Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with personalized care and support throughout your treatment journey.​​ We are proud to offer multiple superficial radiation therapy options at Wellspring oncology including superficial electron therapy and superficial HDR brachytherapy.
Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: What You Should Know
If you have been diagnosed with an early stage non-melanoma skin cancer, like basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma. The good news is that these are highly curable. Your main treatment options are typically Mohs surgery and a non-surgical alternative called Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT). This guide is designed to help you understand these two excellent options. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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What is Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)?
SRT is a non-surgical treatment that uses focused energy beams (like electrons or low-energy x-rays) to destroy cancer cells on the surface of the skin.
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How it Works: The energy damages the cancer cells' DNA, causing them to die off while sparing deeper healthy tissue like muscle and bone.
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The Experience: It is a painless, non-invasive procedure with no cutting, stitches, or needles. Treatment involves short daily sessions (about 10- minutes each) over a few weeks. Often this is 20 sessions for superficial electron therapy or 6 sessions for HDR brachytherapy. You can return to your normal activities immediately after each visit.
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Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) Overview
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Treatment Type: SRT is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused, low-energy radiation beams to destroy cancer cells on the skin's surface without any cutting or surgery.
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Cure Rate: The cure rate is high, with many modern providers citing rates of 97% to over 99% for appropriate tumors.
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Confirmation of Cure: A cure is determined by clinical observation, meaning the doctor visually confirms that the cancer has disappeared from the skin. This method does not microscopically check for any remaining cancer cells under the surface.
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Cosmetic Outcome: The main cosmetic advantage is the absence of a surgical scar. Most patients have excellent cosmetic outcomes with SRT. However, there is a risk that the treatment can result in changes to the treated skin, such as lightening or darkening of the skin color, the appearance of tiny red blood vessels, or a change in skin texture.
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Patient Experience and Side Effects: The process is painless and involves a series of short appointments (often about 10 minutes) with no downtime afterward. The primary side effect is a temporary, sunburn-like reaction in the treated area, including redness, peeling, and soreness.
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Logistics: Typically requires 6 to 20 quick 10 minute sessions over several weeks.
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Who is a Good Candidate for SRT?
SRT can be an excellent choice, especially for patients who :
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Are not good candidates for surgery due to other health conditions (like heart problems) or who are on blood thinners.
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Strongly prefer to avoid a surgical procedure.
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Have cancers in locations where surgery could be difficult or affect appearance and function, such as the tip of the nose, eyelid, or ear rim.
Making Your Choice
The best treatment for you depends on your specific cancer, your health, and your personal priorities. If you would like to understand the specific radiation options available to you please call Wellspring Oncology today at 727-343-0600 to schedule a consultation