Gentle Cure: Non-Surgical Alternative

What is GentleCure™?

GentleCure™ is known as an “image-guided SRT” treatment. “SRT” stands for “superficial radiation therapy.” It is considered to be a revolutionary, kinder, and gentler alternative to conventional excisional and radiation therapies. In fact, it is the first and only treatment of its kind to use ultrasound imaging. This allows our dermatologist team and radiation therapist to see the cancer on a monitor, and we can then review progress at every step in the process until no cancer is present. Such advanced imaging also allows us to tailor and adapt dosing at every stage in this walk toward being cancer-free.
Of course, there are also the benefits associated with the light-touch nature of GentleCure™, as it effectively reduces the risk of scarring and the need for aggressive or extensive reconstructive procedures. Less invasive therapy also provides a better, more well-tolerated experience, which our patients all appreciate!

What can I expect from this gentle treatment?

If GentleCure™ is appropriate, each session involves applying an ultrasound gel to the treatment sites. An imaging wand is then used to render an image of the cancer on a monitor, which you and one of our dermatologists can view. That image and the clinical appearance are then used to determine the size and shape of the tumor at that specific time, which then informs precision and tailored dosing. The exact dose of energy is applied to target the cancer, which helps to preserve and keep the healthy tissue outside of the treatment zone intact. The entire process can be completed in just 15 minutes at each visit. As your doctor advises, you will visit our team in Beverly Hills, California several times each week. Treatment will be complete in around four to seven weeks.

Is GentleCure™ right for me?

Let’s find out! Of course, we need first to take a close look at your skin and find out a little bit more about you. GentleCure’s effectiveness has been validated by substantive studies; it boasts a 99.3% “cure rate” for early-stage non-melanoma cancers (basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas). So, it has been successfully used to treat many different types of patients. But there is no other patient quite like you. And, to account for our patients’ diverse needs, we have many onsite therapies for skin cancer and other conditions. Alternatives include precision Mohs micrographic surgery. You can also maintain your relationship with your outside dermatologist and come to SKIN/tervention just for your GentleCure series or Mohs surgery and return to your referring dermatologist for your ongoing care. We are here to help all dermatology patients!

What to expect at your first appointment

At each treatment session, you will sit in a chair and ultrasound gel will be applied to the site of the cancer. Using an imaging wand, we will look at a detailed image of your cancer on screen. You can see the image yourself from the comfort of the chair. We will use that image to measure the size and shape of the tumor, calculate the precise dose of treatment, and define the treatment area.

Once the imaging is complete, the arm of the device will be placed over the treatment site and the exact dose of X-ray energy will be used to treat the cancer site without harming the healthy tissue around it.

Each treatment session takes about 15 minutes from the time you walk in the door to when you leave the office. You will come back several times a week for short treatment sessions, and in 4-to-7 weeks, treatment will be complete.

What are IG-SRT’s side effects?

When X-ray energy is used to kill cancer cells, your body will replace the dead cancer cells with healthy tissue over time. There is no surgical scarring and no need for reconstructive surgery. There is, however, a small risk of skin atrophy (thinning of the skin) and pigment changes (changes in the color of the skin) at the treatment site. Other potential side effects may include skin inflammation with redness and swelling at the treatment site. Topical creams or ointments can be used over the course of treatment to minimize these side effects, and the side effects usually go away 2-to 6-weeks after treatment is complete. There is also a risk of alopecia (hair loss) in the treated area only.

In the 7 years that patients have been receiving GentleCure (Image-Guided SRT), there have been NO reported cases of secondary skin cancers occurring as a result of treatment.

Does my insurance cover IG-SRT?

With most insurance plans, you may have to pay some out-of-pocket cost. That cost will depend on your specific health plan coverage and co-pay policy. Before you commit to a treatment option, we will work with your insurance plan to determine the potential cost to you, so you can make an informed treatment decision. If you are worried about affording treatment, let us know and we can discuss our financial assistance options.