At Elite Dermatology, we specialize in providing the safest, most effective skin cancer treatments available to patients throughout the greater Houston area, including GentleCure, which is Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy, or Image-Guided SRT. Image-Guided SRT is a non-surgical therapy that targets and destroys skin cancer cells with remarkable accuracy, offering patients an FDA-approved, no-downtime alternative to more invasive radiation treatment options.
What Is Image-Guided SRT?
Image-Guided SRT (IG-SRT) is an advanced skin cancer treatment that combines precision radiation therapy with real-time ultrasound imaging. This non-surgical skin cancer treatment uses low levels of x-ray energy to kill skin cancer cells and support growth of healthy tissue in its place. It is 99% effective as a cure for early basal and squamous cell skin cancers.
Traditional radiation therapy, which is typically performed in the hospital, is also an effective treatment for skin cancer but can affect tissue beyond the boundaries of the cancerous area. Image-Guided SRT incorporates the use of ultrasound imaging with an adaptive radiotherapy protocol to accurately locate and target only the cancerous area, minimizing side effects and improving outcomes.
Who Is a Candidate for Image-Guided SRT?
Candidates for Image-Guided SRT are patients who have been diagnosed with early stage non-melanoma skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. Image-Guided SRT can be ideal for those who prefer a non-surgical skin cancer treatment or for patients who may not be good candidates for surgery due to age, health conditions, or the location of their skin cancer site.
Image-Guided SRT can also be used to treat benign skin conditions such as keloids.
Benefits of Image-Guided SRT
- Short (less than 15 minutes) treatment visits
- No anesthesia usage
- No cutting, no bleeding, no stitches, no surgical scars
- No need for reconstruction surgery
- No post-surgery downtime
- Reduced risk for infection
- Reduced risk for short or long term nerve damage
- You may resume all normal activity during treatment.
What to Expect with Image-Guided SRT
When you undergo Image-Guided SRT at Elite Dermatology, you can expect a patient-centered experience from start to finish. The treatment process begins with an initial consultation. During your initial consultation, one of our exceptionally qualified dermatologists will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and determine if Image-Guided SRT is the right treatment for you. You are also welcome to ask any questions and discuss any concerns you might have.
During each treatment session, you’ll sit comfortably while ultrasound gel is applied to the cancer site. We’ll use an imaging wand to display a detailed image of the tumor, which you can view as well. This image helps us measure the tumor, calculate the treatment dose, and define the treatment area.
Once imaging is done, the device’s arm is positioned over the site to deliver a precise dose of X-ray energy, targeting the cancer without affecting surrounding healthy tissue.
Your treatment will be performed by our certified registered radiation therapist, and your dermatologist will follow your progress. Each session lasts about 15 minutes. You’ll need to return several times a week, and treatment will be complete in 4 to 7 weeks.
What to Expect After Image-Guided SRT
There is no bleeding, wound care, or downtime needed after your Image-Guided SRT sessions. You will not need to take time away from your normal routine during treatment. One potential side effect during treatment is skin inflammation with redness and swelling at the treatment site.
Ultrasound images will be taken before and after your sessions, so our dermatologist can measure the results of each treatment. After completing the recommended number of sessions and confirming via imaging that the cancerous cells have been eradicated, follow-up appointments can be scheduled, as needed, for monitoring.
Cost of Image-Guided SRT
The cost of Image-Guided SRT can vary depending on factors such as the number of treatment sessions required, the size and location of the cancerous area(s) being treated, and your insurance coverage. Our team will provide a detailed cost estimate for your non-surgical skin cancer treatment.
Schedule a Consultation to Learn More
If you’re considering Image-Guided SRT in the Houston area or want to learn more about this precision cancer therapy, schedule a consultation with Elite Dermatology today. Our experienced dermatologists are here to guide you through your treatment options, answer your questions, and help you make an informed decision about your care.
Image-Guided SRT FAQs
Is Image-Guided SRT safe for older adults?
Yes, Image-Guided SRT is a safe and effective non-invasive skin cancer treatment for seniors, especially those who may not be suitable candidates for surgery due to age or health conditions. This pain-free skin cancer treatment is ideal for older adults seeking a less aggressive option with minimal side effects that also allows for a quicker recovery compared to traditional methods.
Are there additional treatment applications for IG-SRT?
Yes, IG-SRT has proven to be an effective treatment for eliminating keloids, which are thick overgrowths of scar tissue. Our dermatologists perform IG-SRT after surgically removing keloids to target the cells that cause excess scar tissue to form, and we have seen an incredibly high rate of success with this method.
How long does each Image-Guided SRT session take?
Each Image-Guided SRT session typically lasts between 10 to 15 minutes. The majority of that time is spent on positioning and imaging, while the actual radiation therapy is delivered within a few minutes.
