Superficial Radiation Therapy

Superficial radiotherapy (SRT) is a significant advancement in non-invasive skin cancer treatment. This specialized form of external beam radiation delivers precise, low-energy radiation directly to the skin's surface, effectively targeting and destroying cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

A Nonsurgical Alternative

For patients seeking alternatives to surgical intervention, SRT offers a compelling solution that doesn't require incisions, anesthesia, or recovery time. The treatment has proven particularly effective for non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It is also used for treating certain benign skin conditions like keloids.

How SRT Works

The treatment process involves multiple short sessions spread over several weeks, with each session lasting only a few minutes. This approach allows for optimal dose delivery while giving healthy cells time to recover between treatments, resulting in better cosmetic outcomes compared to traditional surgical methods. Most patients require between 12 and 20 treatments.

What to Expect

The treatment itself is painless, though some patients may experience mild skin irritation or redness in the treated area during the course of therapy, similar to a sunburn. There is minimal to no recovery time -- patients can return to normal activities immediately after each session.

Common side effects are mild and typically include temporary redness, dryness, or irritation of the treated area. Long-term side effects are rare when the treatment is properly administered.

Houston's Finest

If you are looking for an experienced team of dermatologists, please contact Bayou City Dermatology today.

Expert Care, Every Visit

All cosmetic and medical dermatology treatments at Bayou City Dermatology are performed or supervised by our board-certified dermatologists and licensed providers. Your treatment plan is tailored to your goals during a one-on-one consultation, so you can feel confident you're in expert hands from start to finish.

Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.

What conditions can be treated with superficial radiotherapy?

A.

SRT effectively treats non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It is also used for treating certain benign skin conditions like keloids.

Q.

Is superficial radiotherapy painful?

A.

The treatment itself is painless. Some patients may experience mild skin irritation or redness in the treated area during the course of therapy, similar to a sunburn.

Q.

What are the side effects of SRT?

A.

Common side effects are mild and typically include temporary redness, dryness, or irritation of the treated area. Long-term side effects are rare when the treatment is properly administered.

Q.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

A.

The number of sessions varies based on the type, size, and location of the cancer, but most patients require between 12 and 20 treatments spread over several weeks. Each session lasts only a few minutes.

Q.

Is there downtime after SRT?

A.

There is minimal to no recovery time. Patients can immediately return to their normal activities after each session, making it an excellent option for those with busy schedules.

Q.

How does SRT compare to surgery for skin cancer?

A.

SRT offers a non-invasive alternative that doesn't require incisions, anesthesia, or recovery time. It delivers precise radiation to destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue, often resulting in better cosmetic outcomes compared to traditional surgical methods.

Schedule with us today

If you are looking for an experienced team of dermatologists, please contact Bayou City Dermatology today.

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