Summary

Some basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers are traditionally treated with Mohs surgery, which can leave sizable surgical wounds and noticeable scars. Image-guided superficial radiation therapy (IG-SRT) offers a non-surgical alternative with no cutting, no bleeding, and no pain. This treatment is described as offering the highest cure rate and best cosmetic outcome for appropriate candidates. If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, ask a dermatologist if you’re a candidate for IG-SRT.

What is Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy?

IG-SRT is a cutting-edge, non-surgical treatment that uses advanced imaging technology to guide superficial radiation precisely to skin cancer tumors. This newer option is now offered in specialized dermatology clinics as an alternative to traditional Mohs surgery.

How it works:

• Uses imaging guidance to target the exact tumor location
• Delivers superficial radiation directly to cancer cells
• Requires no surgical incision or removal of tissue
• Performed in a comfortable clinic setting

What makes it different: Unlike surgical approaches, IG-SRT eliminates the tumor without any cutting, making it an attractive option for patients who want effective treatment without surgical intervention.

Which Skin Cancers Does IG-SRT Treat?

IG-SRT is effective for two very common types of skin cancer:

Basal cell carcinoma:

• The most common type of skin cancer
• Usually appears on sun-exposed areas
• Grows slowly but can cause significant damage if untreated

Squamous cell carcinoma:

• The second most common skin cancer
• Also typically found on sun-damaged skin
• Can spread if not properly treated

Both of these skin cancer types are very common, and IG-SRT can be considered alongside traditional Mohs surgery as a treatment option. Your dermatologist will determine which cancers are appropriate for IG-SRT based on factors like size, location, and type.

How Does IG-SRT Compare with Mohs Surgery?

The key differences between these two approaches are significant:

Mohs Surgery:

• Surgical procedure requiring cutting and tissue removal
• Can create large surgical wounds that need healing time
• Often results in significant scarring, especially for larger tumors
• Requires local anesthesia and surgical recovery
• May need multiple stages during the same day

IG-SRT:

• Non-surgical approach with no incisions required
• Offers the highest cure rate for appropriate cases
• Provides the best cosmetic outcome with minimal to no scarring
• No cutting, no bleeding, and no pain during treatment
• Preserves healthy surrounding tissue

Visual results: Patients often see dramatic differences in cosmetic outcomes when comparing IG-SRT results to post-Mohs surgical scars, particularly for basal and squamous cell cancers in visible areas.

What Does IG-SRT Treatment Feel Like?

The treatment experience prioritizes patient comfort:

During treatment:

• No pain during the actual radiation delivery
• No cutting or bleeding at any point
• No need for anesthesia or surgical preparation
• Performed in a comfortable, outpatient setting

What to expect:

• Treatment sessions are typically brief
• You can return to normal activities immediately
• No surgical wounds to care for or protect
• No stitches to remove or surgical site maintenance

This non-invasive experience is a major reason many patients choose to explore IG-SRT as their preferred treatment option, especially for cancers in visible areas where scarring is a concern.

Who Might Consider IG-SRT?

IG-SRT may be ideal for you if:

You have the right cancer type:

• Diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma
• Diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma
• Cancer is in an appropriate location and size for IG-SRT

You have concerns about surgery:

• Worried about scarring, especially on visible areas
• Prefer to avoid surgical procedures when possible
• Want the most cosmetically appealing outcome
• Have medical conditions that make surgery more complicated

Timing considerations:

• Best discussed before scheduling Mohs surgery
• Can be considered as a first-line treatment option
• Worth exploring even if Mohs has been recommended

Not all skin cancers are appropriate for IG-SRT. Your dermatologist will evaluate your specific case to determine if you’re a good candidate based on the cancer’s characteristics and location.

What Should I Do Next?

If you’ve been diagnosed with basal or squamous cell skin cancer, take these steps:

Immediate actions:

1. Schedule a consultation with a dermatology specialist who offers IG-SRT
2. Ask specifically about candidacy for IG-SRT before proceeding with any surgical options
3. Bring all relevant medical records, including biopsy reports and photos
4. Discuss your concerns about scarring and cosmetic outcomes

Questions to ask your dermatologist:

• Am I a candidate for IG-SRT based on my specific cancer?
• What are the cure rates for my type and size of cancer?
• How will the cosmetic outcomes compare between IG-SRT and surgery?
• What does the treatment schedule look like?
• What are the potential side effects or limitations?

Getting started with IG-SRT

At Haber Dermatology, Dr. Robert Haber specializes in advanced skin cancer treatments, including image-guided superficial radiation therapy. To schedule your consultation and learn if IG-SRT is right for your skin cancer, visit haberderm.com or call for an appointment.