Yes, Rhenium‑SCT® skin cancer therapy is available in New Zealand. At present, this advanced, non‑invasive treatment is offered at Canopy Imaging in Hawke’s Bay.

While Rhenium-SCT® treatment involves exposure to very localised radiation, almost none penetrates deeper than 3–4 mm from the skin surface. The application process is designed to spare healthy tissue around the tumour.

As with all radiation-based procedures, there is a slight risk of infection, or radiation-induced ulcers.

Rhenium-SCT® skin cancer therapy is painless. Over a few weeks localised redness and a scab will develop. This is a sign that the cancer cells are dying, the body is shedding them, and healing with new skin is occurring. Some patients will experience itching and/or mild pain during the healing process. The lesion will initially look worse before healing. Your doctor will monitor the healing process at follow-up visits and advise you how to look after your skin as it heals.

When healing is complete from your Rhenium-SCT® skin cancer therapy , the treated area may look a bit lighter, smooth and hairless. The procedure results in little to no scarring.