SRT

What is Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)?

Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT), often delivered as Image-Guided SRT (IG-SRT), is a gentle, non-surgical treatment for basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers. It uses low-dose, targeted x-rays to treat only the surface of the skin. Advanced imaging allows the treating physician to precisely locate and treat cancerous cells while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue, so it can be delivered safely and comfortably right in the dermatologist's office.​

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How does SRT compare with other skin cancer treatments?

​Surgical excision, including Mohs surgery, remains a highly effective and well-established treatment for basal and squamous cell skin cancers, but it involves cutting, stitches, a recovery period, and the possibility of a visible scar. SRT offers patients a needle-free, incision-free alternative with comparable effectiveness: image-guided SRT is considered a gold-standard treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer, typically achieving a 98–99% cure rate with excellent cosmetic outcomes.¹

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What is the SRT procedure?

​Initial Consultation: Treatment begins with a consultation with one of our experienced radiation oncologists. This session is crucial to understanding your specific condition and tailoring the therapy to your needs.​

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Diagnostic Review: We carefully review your pathology reports and perform an ultrasound of the lesion to determine the most effective treatment plan.

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Treatment: SRT is a simple, in-office outpatient procedure, typically twice weekly (~15-20 sessions). of There is no downtime — you can return to your normal daily routine immediately after each visit. As a treatment localized to the skin's surface, there is no radiation exposure to other areas of your body or to anyone else.

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During and After Treatment: The treated area may become red and inflamed, similar to a sunburn — this is usually temporary and resolves in the weeks after treatment. Skin may become dry and peel; redness can worsen for up to 10 days before gradually improving. Over 95% of patients achieve an excellent cosmetic outcome, with hypopigmentation or non-healing ulcers occurring only rarely.

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What are the benefits of SRT?

High cure rates: SRT achieves a 98–99% cure rate for most basal and squamous cell skin cancers — comparable to surgery.¹​

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Painless procedure: No needles, no incisions, and no anesthesia or sedation required.

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Minimal to no scarring: Preserves the health and appearance of the treated skin, helping you feel confident and comfortable.

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No downtime: This quick, in-office treatment requires no hospital stay, so you can resume daily life right away.

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Precision targeting: Image guidance focuses radiation directly on the tumor, sparing healthy surrounding tissue and minimizing side effects.​

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A personalized approach: Every treatment plan is tailored to your unique diagnosis and goals.

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Who is a good candidate for SRT?

​With several excellent treatment options available, patients can choose the approach that best fits their individual preferences — considering comfort, pain, treatment time, effectiveness, and appearance after treatment.

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SRT may be the treatment of choice when:

• You're looking for a painless, non-surgical therapy

• Minimal scarring is important because the tumor is in a visible area (face or nose)

• The tumor is located somewhere surgery would be uncomfortable or difficult (e.g., the shin)

• Surgery isn't advised due to a health condition or medication (such as blood thinners)

• It's important to preserve the structure and function of the treated area (hand or ear)

• Margins remain positive after an initial surgical excision

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1. Yu, L., Oh, C. & Shea, C.R. The Treatment of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer with Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy: An Analysis of 2917 Invasive and In Situ Keratinocytic Carcinoma Lesions. Oncol Ther 9, 153–166 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40487-021-00138-4