While most individuals recognize Mohs surgery as a form of skin cancer treatment, patients may be less familiar with an alternative option known as Superficial Radiation Therapy.

Also known as SRT, since its inception over 100 years ago, the procedure’s popularity has waxed and waned.

However, due to technological advancements in the past 5 years, superficial radiation therapy is once again being promoted as way to treat non-melanoma skin cancers.

In fact, many experts recommend SRT for patients that have non-melanoma skin cancers, but are not candidates or adverse to surgery.

Here’s everything you need to know about the benefits of superficial radiation therapy in Waldorf, MD.

What is Superficial Radiation Therapy?

Superficial radiation therapy is a skin cancer treatment for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, which develop from sun exposure and tanning beds.

SRT is not appropriate in cases of melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer.

How Does Superficial Radiation Therapy Work?

The treatment uses focused, low-dose radiation to prevent cancerous cells from spreading. SRT only penetrates skin deep and each session lasts approximately 30 seconds.

Most patients undergo a series of 1-2 treatments per week for several weeks. The procedure should be performed by a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Verghese that’s trained in SRT.

What Are the Benefits of SRT?

Unlike Mohs surgery, superficial radiation therapy does not require anesthesia or incisions. While some patients may experience slight redness and/or irritation post-treatment, SRT has minimal side effects.

It’s also an excellent option for individuals that are concerned about scarring, especially in sensitive areas like the nose, eyelid, lip, and ear.

Additionally, SRT works well for patients that have basal cell or squamous cell skin cancers and are not candidates for Mohs surgery. This includes men and women that cannot tolerate anesthesia, do not heal well or quickly, have compromised immune systems, and are taking blood thinners.

Other factors that must be considered when electing to undergo superficial radiation therapy for skin cancer include the size and location of the tumor and the patient’s age and overall health.

To learn more about superficial radiation therapy in Waldorf, MD, and if it’s right for you, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation.