Superficial radiation therapy, or SRT, is a skin cancer treatment offering limited discomfort, no cutting or stitches and little to no scarring. SRT has emerged as one of the most effective — and most sought-after — options to treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It also treats non-malignant tumors that cause keloids. Delivered by an experienced radiation oncologist, SRT offers a 98.7% skin cancer cure rate, making it a competitive choice compared to skin surgery and Mohs surgery options. Benefits of SRT for skin cancer Rather than cutting the cancer from the skin, SRT uses a precise dose of external radiation to destroy the cancer cells. The radiation only goes skin-deep, limiting risk to healthy internal tissues. Since the treatment does not involve cutting, bleeding or stitches, there’s little to no pain, low risk of infection and no need for reconstructive plastic surgery.There is also no downtime or special precautions following treatment — you can continue working and bathing following treatment. Why choose SRT for skin cancer? Radiation oncologist Jason Sanders, MD, discusses why SRT is an excellent option to treat various types of skin cancers. SRT is a safer treatment option for skin cancer SRT can be especially beneficial if you have existing conditions that make skin surgery more risky, such as conditions that make you slow to heal or increase your risk of serious bleeding like diabetes or treatment that involves blood thinners. The nonsurgical nature of SRT also means there’s no need for anesthesia and no bandages and dressings to maintain. Beginning SRT treatments for skin cancer at Tanner Tanner Cancer Care offers SRT at the Roy Richards, Sr. Cancer Center on the campus of Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton. If you have been diagnosed with a skin cancer or keloid, ask your dermatologist or medical provider if SRT is an option for you. Want to know more? Ask your dermatologist if SRT is right for you. What is radiation therapy? Radiation therapy is a proven way to beat back many types of cancer. Learn More Skin cancer facts The more you know, the better. Find more in our Health Library. Visit More Request Information Get more information about our programs and the Tanner Cancer Care promise. LEARN MORE Patient Resources Browse our patient resources. LEARN MORE Find a Specialist Find a cancer care specialist at Tanner. LEARN MORE